9/23/2022 Ocean City Today

SEPTEMBER 23, 2022

SERVING NORTHERN WORCESTER COUNTY FREE

Traffic patterns released for festival

Philadelphia gets special attention as city maps out Oceans Calling strategy

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) Ocean City officials have released guidelines and in-

formation to make sure everyone attending the Oceans Calling Festival next weekend knows what to expect when traveling to and from the busy downtown venue.

In a news release issued Wednesday, concertgoers were advised to expect congestion and limited parking in the downtown areas from the

Route 50 bridge to 33rd Street from about 11 a.m. to midnight.

The three-day festival, which will feature big-name ’90s and 2000s bands and artists playing on multiple stages set up in and around the inlet parking lot, will begin next Friday, Sept. 30 and run through next Sunday. The live music event is expected

to attract the biggest crowd the resort has likely ever seen for a single event, and officials are making sure everything from traffic and parking, to police, fire and emergency services are intricately planned out.

Last week, city officials said they would advise people to avoid driving

extendedlandSportsplexdeal

Closing put off until Jan. 23 as county looks for funds

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Worcester County Commissioners and the owners of the possible sports complex property on Route 50 near Stephen Decatur High School have agreed to push the closing date on the purchase of the 94.5-acre parcel for $7.15 million to allow the county to find a funding

Resort’s first gun show follows strict rules

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) “Sun’s out, gun’s out” is taking on a more literal meaning this weekend in Ocean City at the inaugural kick-off of OC AdventureFest.

Big, or ironically small, arm muscles popping out of tank tops will take a back seat to actual guns on display for the resort’s first-ever gun show, which will also encompass the whole outdoor hunting and sports world while leaning in heavily to law en-

forcement and military themes.

Set Thursday through Sunday at the Ocean City convention center, the event also serves as the first tangible attempt to edge out the tuner car enthusiasts who have wreaked havoc

See

Althoughsource.the closing was originally slated for Sept. 29, the sellers Helen F. Faucette, Hale Harrison, and John Henry Harrison have agreed to extend that date to Jan. 31, 2023.On April 19, the Worcester County Commissioners voted to buy the land for the complex. Originally, the money was to come from the sale of $11.2 million in bonds earmarked for financing a portion of the costs of designing, engineering, construction, equipping, and furnishing the facility.

The decision to push the date back to January comes just three months after County Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young revealed that the

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

LINED UP

It was head-in parking only at the convention center parking lot last Saturday as just a small portion of the tens of thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts who came to town last week for OC BikeFest took time off from riding to check out the many vendors set up there. All-in-all, the event went off smoothly, despite the presence of some outlaw bike gang members and a pair of deadly accidents. Story on page 21.

bond money earmarked for the purchase could not be used.

Commissioner Chip Bertino, who has opposed the development of a sport complex with taxpayer money, questioned Commissioner Joe Mitrecic about the procedure for applying for funds from the Maryland Stadium Authority and was told it could be comprised of grants, loans, or if the authority finds it feasible, it may even pay for the whole facility.

Mitrecic also told Bertino when a study being paid for by Ocean City officials is completed, the stadium authority will have a better idea of how much money to put toward the project.

Ocean City requested a study that

looks into possibilities of constructing an indoor facility at the sportsplex.

According to Mitrecic, Worcester County will put together the concept of the sportsplex and Ocean City, who wants to partner in the project, wants to put an indoor facility their.

Mitrecic also said the county was accused of rushing the project, then suddenly nothing happens, and people wonder why it is not moving.

To clear things up, he added, the county is continuing with studies like the traffic study, to ensure due diligence is done.

The deciding vote to push the date back to January was 4-3 with Commissioners Bertino, Ted Elder, and Jim Bunting voting in opposition.

Ocean City Today

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The Worcester County Commissioners nearly parcel just west of Stephen Decatur High School January 2023, allow county funding source for the $7.15 million purchase. Commissioners Chip Bertino, Jim Bunting and Ted Elder voted in

City officials outline music fest traffic plans

their vehicles to the area during the concerts to reduce traffic and parking woes. Instead, concertgoers are encouraged to bike or take public buses.

The walk from the north end of the Boardwalk at 27th Street to the inlet parking lot is a roughly 2.3-mile walk and takes about 45 minutes.

The release said alternate traffic routes will be set up from 9 p.m. to midnight on the festival nights to accommodate the crowds. They are listed as follows:

• Closure of the area south of the Route 50 bridge to non-event traffic, with the south lane off Route 50 onto south Philadelphia Avenue restricted to emergency vehicles and mass transit.•

Vehicular traffic south on Philadelphia Avenue will be diverted onto North Division Street and then north on Baltimore Avenue.

• An established traffic pattern will direct all south-moving traffic to St. Louis Avenue to Second Street toward Philadelphia Avenue.

• North-moving traffic on Baltimore Ave (between South Division to Talbot streets) will be reduced to one lane. The middle lane will be used to stage mass transit vehicles and the eastern lane will be designated for pedestrians.Asforparking, officials are recommending that anyone who decides to drive to the event use the West Ocean City Park & Ride on Route 50. Transportation officials said last week that they are working with an outside company to provide school buses to help drive people to and from the lot.

Parking is also available at the Ocean City convention center parking lot on 40th Street and the 100th Street municipal lot. For more information about public parking, ococean.com/parking-information.visit

Several private lots also exist throughout the Concertgoerscity.can catch city buses downtown from any of the public and private lots, hotels, businesses and other spots where stops are located. The town will have as many buses as possible running for the duration of the event. Passengers can ride all day, from 6 to 2 a.m., for $3, and travel across the extent of Coastal Highway. The city also has a locator app that allows riders to track buses in real Officialstime.

have also planned for the “mass exodus,” as several of them described last week, for the concerts.Therelease said attendees can walk to Baltimore Avenue when the shows end each night. Buses headed north will be staged on Baltimore Avenue between Worcester and Talbot streets, and people headed west to the park-and-ride can catch a bus from the south end transit station at South Division Street.

Bus demand will be high after the shows, which will make for long wait times when leaving.

For people who choose to use taxis, Uber, Lyft, and other ride share services, the general drop-off and pick-up will be at 300 St. Louis Ave. The walk from the ballfield to the festival grounds is about 5 to 10 minutes.The OC Bay Hopper water taxi will also be running for concert goers. For more information on the service, thewillneartrancesthePresents,Wednesdayocbayhopper.com/oceanscalling/.visitCityManagerTerryMcGeansaidthattheorganizer,C3willsetVIPfencingaroundconcertvenueandhavetwoen-spotsalongtheBoardwalktheinlet.HesaidtheBoardwalkremainopentothepublicduringevent.

MAP COURTESY TOWN OF OCEAN CITY

A map shows traffic patterns, landmarks, parking info, walking and biking time estimates, and more from the Oceans Calling Festival area at the inlet to Seventh Street downtown for next weekend’s event.

THE ESTATES OF INLET ISLE

HERON HARBOUR

305 S HERON GULL CT • OCEAN CITY

Stunning coastal custom recently renovated 6BR/6BA/2HBA waterfront estate. Property features exceptional craftsmanship. First-floor primary bedroom overlooks the water and has a luxurious master bath. Spacious kitchen features granite countertops, two sinks, high end appliances, and upgraded cabinets. Dining area is off the kitchen and overlooks the water. Family room is off the dining room and also overlooks the water. Family room has 22-foot ceilings and a gas fireplace making it the perfect place for y/r enjoyment. There is a sunroom or office area off the front of the house which could also be used as a separate dining room. On the third floor you will find a movie theater room w/kitchen. You will enjoy watching the boats go by and the breathtaking bay views and sunsets. Additional enhancements include upgraded lighting and flooring, 2- 75-gallon water heaters and 3 zone heating and air conditioning. Enjoy outdoor living w/extensive composite multi-level decks. There is a private pier w/a deep-water dock, 10,000 lb. boat lift, two jet ski lifts, a davit hoist and vinyl bulkhead. Home was professionally landscaped and has an irrigation system. This estate offers a fabulous open floor plan that maximizes spectacular views. A short distance to the beach, shops and restaurants. Boasting over 5200Sqft, this home is in the amenity rich community of Heron Harbour. The community amenities include an indoor heated pool, outdoor family pool, Olympic size lap pool, kiddie pool, fitness center, library, social room and two lighted clay tennis courts. This is more than a luxurious home, it's a wonderful lifestyle. MLS MDWO2008958

MLS MDWO2009880 5TH OCEAN • $135,000

Cozy cottage condo w/1BR/1 BA. If you are looking for an investment property, vacation home or fulltime starter home in Ocean City this may be the one! It has everything you need including a small kitchen to enjoy home cooked meals. Located on 5th street close to everything Ocean City has to offer. Enjoy the beach, boardwalk, rides, shopping, and restaurants. Come take a look today before it's sold. It can be shown between rentals. There is even an outdoor pool to enjoy.

35238 DOGWOOD DRIVE #25 SELBYVILLE, DE • $479,900

3BR/2.5BA townhome in the Refuge! Open floor plan; upgraded kitchen w/granite countertops, SS appliances, and a breakfast bar. There is a gas fireplace for y/r enjoyment. Off the family room there is a slider leading to a screened in patio. There is a flex room on the first floor. Main living area on the first floor has hardwood floors. First-floor primary bedroom is enhanced by a tray ceiling, walk-in closet, and oversized ensuite bathroom. Slider off the primary bedroom leads to a private rear patio. On the second floor there are two additional bedrooms and a large flex room. Condo fee covers exterior maintenance, lawn care & water usage. Neighborhood has a large swimming pool, tennis, gym, walking trails and boat launch. Close to shopping and restaurants and minutes from Freeman Stage and an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus golf course. 3 miles from Fenwick Island and Ocean City beaches! MLS DESU2026292

424 LARK LANE E303 OCEAN CITY • $269,900

OCEAN beach, boardwalk, rides, entertainment, shops, and the restaurants. Currently rented but can be shown between rentals turn over days. MDWO2009886 N ST LOUIS AVENUE UNIT 21 • OCEAN CITY BAY

2BR/1BA condo located close to the boardwalk and is in great condition. You will fall in love w/the open floor plan. Family room is perfect for entertaining, and the large dining room is directly off the family room. The wellequipped kitchen flows off the dining room. The chef in your family will love the kitchen. Everyone will enjoy eating in as much as eating out! The condo has a W/D in the unit. The unit was also recently updated w/a mini split heating and AC system and new flooring throughout. Currently being used as an Airbnb and the rental income is amazing. Being sold furnished. Move-in ready. Close to restaurants, shops, Jolly Roger, the boardwalk, and beach. Complex has a large outdoor pool. Come take a look today before it's SOLD. MLS MDWO2008054

This stunning 4BR/4BA home has OPEN WATER VIEWS and is in a wonderful neighborhood. A recently renovated Cape Cod w/a spacious backyard off South Point Road in Berlin, overlooks the water and Assateague Island. Home has open floor plan and an abundance of natural light. You will love the character of the hardwood floors, the upgraded baths and the lighting. There is an enormous composite deck in the back, 2car garage, and storage area. 1.5 miles from Ocean City Golf Club, 1.5 miles from the Public Boat Ramp, 2.4 miles from Rum Point Golf Course, 6 miles from Assateague Island, 8.5 miles from Ocean City Airport, 9.4 miles from Sunset Marina and 10.5 miles from the Ocean City Boardwalk. Schedule your showing today and consider making this dream home yours! MLS MDWO2007874

Why not build? There's nothing like building the house of your dreams! Large cul-de-sac (11,566 Sqft.) home site in the very desirable Colonial Village location in Ocean Pines. Close to the Yacht Club, Yacht club pool and marina and Mumford's Landing Pool, and located only a few miles from Ocean City’s famous beaches. Ocean Pines is an amenity rich community w/restaurants, shops, tennis, recreational facilities, golf, ball fields, pickleball courts, basketball court, playground, 12 parks, 6 trails, indoor and outdoor pools, 2 marinas, beachfront beach club at 49th Street in Ocean City, and the farmer's market. There is also police protection, fire protection and excellent management. MLS MDWO2008616 no further this commercial tract is 14.33 acres the corner of Route 113 and Route 610 across from Emings BBQ. a desirable Eastern Shore. The bilities

Build your dream house! If you are looking for some acreage look no further, this property is 3.016 acres. This property is just off Route 113 and close to Berlin, America's coolest small town. The property is conveniently located near Ocean City Beaches and Assateague Island. Survey has been done and soil samples are completed. No HOA to worry about let's start the process and get exactly what in a home. ROAD

7.29 acres hits the market! Minutes from the beaches, shopping, and restaurants. This piece has a density of 16 lots. Both pieces are served by water and sewer in Selbyville. OWNER FINANCING IS AVAIABLE! Come take a look today before it's SOLD! MLS DESU2028756 It is diagonally across from the former Emings BBQ. Owner financing is available w/acceptable contract. Come take a look today before it's SOLD! Possibilities are endless. MLS MDWO113680

WEST OC WITH BOAT SLIP 13009 BOWLINE LN #3 OCEAN CITY • $785,000

Waterfront 6BR/5BA/2HBA custom estate w/deep water and room for a 42’ boat. Home features exceptional craftsmanship, astute attention to detail and extensive custom finishes. Close to the beach, restaurants, shopping, and the inlet. Professional kitchen w/high-end ss appliances, tile backsplash, quartz countertops, upgraded lighting, center island, and breakfast bar. Large dining area off the kitchen w/marina and sunset views. Spacious great room flows off kitchen w/cathedral ceilings and a fireplace. Off the family room is a stairway leading to the upper deck, the highest point in the house. Spacious main level primary BR/BA. Second level- 2 guest BR/BA overlooking the water, a secondary primary BR/BA, and a spacious 2nd family room w/a custom wet bar and multiple balconies. First level- 6th BR, a second kitchen and family or office space overlooking the water w/its own separate entrance. Glass sliders out to back yard and patio; custom fire pit, room for a pool, 2-car extra deep garage, elevator, multiple laundry locations, upgraded lighting and ceiling fans, custom tile work, maintenance free decking. Perfect location to watch the fireworks at the inlet and the boats/yachts in the inlet/marina. Home is in a small, gated community surrounded by multimillion dollar homes. Come take a look before it’s SOLD! MLS MDWO2010158 vacation rental. Have it all with a well-run condo association and without the upkeep of a single-family home. MLS MDWO2007716

BAYSIDE

SELBYVILLE

BERLIN

3BR/2BA/1HBA end unit townhome sold fully furnished w/a boat slip at Townes of Nantucket. There's a large outdoor deck for outdoor dining w/a shade awning. Exceptionally wide boat slip is directly off the back deck. The 1st level of the home also has a half bath. On the 2nd level you will find the primary bedroom and bath and spacious walk-in closets. There are two additional bedrooms on the 2nd level, a second bath, and a pull-down attic plenty of storage. to the townhome is community space with (MLS-

Strict rules established for resort gun show

across the town for years on this particular September weekend.

“It’s a multifaceted event,” AdventureFest Co-organizer Cliff Sutherland said this week. “The purpose of the event is to create an economic impact for Ocean City and to help create an opportunity to eliminate the (tuner) event. We have five nonprofits, it will benefit them, all police and military oriented.”Theidea for OC Adventurefest materialized several months ago as a possible contrast — and deterrent — to the annual pop-up car rally often erroneously referred to as H2Oi. The official H2Oi event dropped Ocean City in favor of Atlantic City, New Jersey years ago.

Sutherland, a Morgantown, West Virginia, resident who has years of past involvement with OC BikeFest, said members of the local Hogs and Heroes Foundation approached him and asked for his help organizing the new event.

Sutherland teamed up with two other organizers and promptly got to work planning activities that would attract as many law enforcement and military personnel as possible. The result was essentially four days of entertainment, activities and tributes marketed to the people who risk their personal safety to protect the public — and the people who love and appreciate them.

It began Thursday night with a performance by country band Lonestar at the Ocean City convention center and continues Friday with the full schedule.

Each day a gun show with more than 500 vendors will set up tables inside the main hall of the midtown venue alongside a sports and outdoor show.

The gun show will be Ocean City’s first. City Manager Terry McGean said

no city laws exist banning gun-related shows, however no one has ever asked to hold one before. AdventureFest promoters worked with city officials for months to develop a package of rigid safety and security rules before getting the approvals needed to put on the event.The regulations include the full vetting of all vendors before they are permitted to participate, ensuring all guns on the premises do not have ammunition, and preventing anyone from buying a handgun or rifle and leaving the show with Sutherlandit. said anyone who buys a

gun at the show must go through a 30day background check and have the weapon shipped to a local dealer for pick-up.“You can buy and you can sell but you can’t take possession,” he said.

McGean said the organizers are bringing their own security and are required to have metal detectors on site. Along with working with staff members, organizers went before council members several times, until everyone was satisfied with the details of the event.“We believe we have worked with the promoter to address our concerns,” McGean said this week.

Sutherland also said that he “surprisingly” has not received any negative feedback about the event, as the danger of guns is a hot topic right now. He pointed out, though, that the show is professional, highly regulated, and put on by a veteran company. Organizer Showmasters Gun Shows has been hosting shows for more than five decades and puts on 90 a year, SutherlandHesaid.added that that the show promotes safe, responsible gun ownership and that the people attending are military, police and other law-abiding owners.“At this time, there’s never been an incident from somebody who bought a gun at a gun show,” he said.

The event will also feature a gun auction, which Sutherland said is unique to these types of shows, and a raffle for a custom gun manufactured by a local Berlin dealer.

OC ADVENTUREFEST SCHEDULE

The schedule for the first-ever OC AdventureFest is as follows. All activities are at the Ocean City convention center on 40th Street, unless specified otherwise. For more information, visit ocadventurefest.com.

Friday, Sept. 23

10 a.m. to 7 p.m. - Blackout Veterans Tribute 10 a.m. to noon - Showmasters Ocean City Gun Show Auction

NoonViewingto3 p.m. - Ocean City Gun

3-8Auctionp.m.- Ocean City Gun Show

3-8 p.m. - Mid-Atlantic Sports & Outdoor Show

7 p.m. - Kashmir, the live Led Zeppelin Show with Special Guest Dave Bray *Performing Arts Center

Saturday, Sept. 24

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. - Ocean City Gun Show

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. - Mid-Atlantic Sports & Outdoor Show 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. - Blackout Veterans Tribute

10:30 a.m. - H&H Memorial Ride

Leaves *Departing Rommel Harley Davidson and riding to the convention center

10-11 a.m. - K-9 Demo & Retreiver

11:45Demoa.m. to 1 p.m. - H&H Memorial Walk *To the Boardwalk and back

1-3 p.m. - Opening Ceremonies

*H.O.G. Rodeo Stage

1:30-3 p.m. - Biker Games and 3-4Rodeop.m.- Music *H.O.G. Rodeo 4-5Stagep.m. - K-9 Working Dogs

7:30-10:30Exhibitionp.m. - Priscilla Block, with Special Guest Lauren Weintraub *Performing Arts Center

Sunday, Sept. 25

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. - Ocean City Gun Show

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. - Mid-Atlantic Sports & Outdoor Show

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Blackout Veterans Tribute

4-5 p.m. - Law Enforcement K-9 Demo

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Cliff Sutherland, co-organizer of OC AdventureFest, points out the features on the custom gun that will be raffled off during this weekend’s event at the Ocean City convention center.

Besides the guns, AdventureFest will include police K-9 demonstrations and shows, taping for a national K-9 show, motorcycle competitions, educational classes, nightly concerts, and an array of hunting and outdoor sports displays. On Saturday, driving and walking tributes are planned to honor fallen Wicomico County Cpl. Glenn Hilliard, who died in the line of duty in June.

“The idea is just for people to see people supporting police. Because in today’s world, they need that,” Sutherland said.

The five charities that will benefit from the event are the Maryland Chapter of Concerns of Police Survivors, Patriot Point, US Kennels Inc., Hogs and Heroes Foundation, and a new police foundation that will raise money for agencies in Worcester and Wicomico counties.Sutherland said he expects 18,000 to 20,000 people to attend all of the facets of the event, including the tribute rides. He and his fellow organizers are planning to make AdventureFest an annual event and expect the number of

attendees to increase in the coming years.“We believe strongly by year five we’ll have 20,000 police and military and their families here, plus all the visitors,” he said.

In turn, he thinks the event will edge out the nuisance car rally, which he has heard is already expected to be much tamer this year.

Susan Jones, the executive director of the OC Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association, said in an email this week that projected occupancy rates are low

for this weekend, which indicates that not many people are booked to come to the“Weresort.do call arounds weekly (May –Sept) and this coming weekend, we only have a handful that told us they were full or close to full,” she said.

Jones added that she has not heard of any business owners who have opted to change their hours or close this weekend because of the tuner cars. In years past, including 2021, some owners shut down early and reduced their hours to avoid the car rally mayhem.

Sports complex, other goals highlighted in strategic plan

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) From becoming a go-to spot for youth team sports, to increasing and improving conferences and special events, Ocean City officials have narrowed a set of goals to help the resort cruise into the future.

Council members on Monday approved the final version of the city’s latest strategic plan, which refines the mayor and City Council’s visions, goals and objectives, and provides guidance to staff members to achieve them. City officials aim to update the plan every two years and began putting the latest document together in May.Following a set of workshops, consultants drafted a plan and submitted it to City Manager Terry McGean, who reviewed it with the mayor, City Council members and department heads. Incorporating their comments and observations, McGean developed a finalMcGeandraft.pointed out on Monday that while the plan is updated every two years or so, its contents project goals and visions further into the future. One example is the creation of the city’s motor event task force. The group, which addresses motor events like the unsanctioned tuner car rally that has popped up annually in mid-September, was formed in 2017 and has established a set of strict rules and regulations that seem to be working.

“Sometimes some of the things we do here, and the task force was brought up, start small, thinking ahead of time,” McGean said. “Maybe people in this room don’t see the benefits of it but our children and our grandchildren do. And that’s what strategic planning is all about.”

The latest plan emphasizes the goal to market the resort as “Maryland’s/East Coast Team Sports Capital” by working with Worcester County officials to construct a sports

complex outside of town. The city’s role will be developing an indoor facility, according to the plan, while the county will be responsible for outdoor fields.Other top priorities include attracting and booking more and different special events to solidify the resort as a year-round destination, upgrading Route 90, funding and constructing a new fire station, and finding a cahs source to complete the Baltimore Avenue utility burying project.High priority goals included development of a public safety action plan, redoing the town’s pension plan, and updating the city’s sign code.

Challenges such as a lack of housing for seasonal employees, parking issues, and increases in costs for event infrastructure and attractions were also

Beforeincluded.approving the plan Monday, Councilman John Gehrig pointed out one minor language change that he believed should be made. When referring to tourism, the plan said the city needs to identify revenue sources to pay for city services that are expected to increase with more tourism.

He called the outlook “negative” and suggested a change that states tourism will essentially pay for itself, as it is the revenue source that pays for city services. He pointed out that while prices are going up pretty much everywhere, officials have managed to keep city property taxes low because of the money derived from tourism.

“In a world of rampant inflation … the residents’ and property owners’ [properties] here in Ocean City, and property taxes, went down,” he said. “And it’s because we pay our bills. And it’s because of tourism.”

Councilman Mark Paddack agreed that the language change should be made and included it in his motion to approve the plan, which the rest of the council unanimously approved.

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Ocean City Council members approved updates to the city’s strategic plan that map out visions, goals and more for the resort for the next roughly two years.

Council advances Baltimore Avenue alley abandonment

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) One of many hurdles standing in the way of a proposed downtown Margaritaville resort was officially cleared this week in a 6-1 council vote.

With Council President Matt James opposed, the council voted Monday night to approve the second and final reading of a request to abandon an oceanside alley at the center of the project’s footprint.

The developers of the proposed 13story, 265-room hotel, which is planned for the former Phillips Beach Plaza property between 13th and 14th streets on Baltimore Avenue, asked the city to abandon the 16-foot alley, known as Washington Lane, months

ago. They need the land to meet the necessary square footage to obtain a zoning designation known as a planned overlay district, or POD, to develop the project.

The designation requires 90,000 square feet of contiguous land, which developers did not meet through the property they owned. They planned to get there with the alley and developed a detailed plan to improve it and incorporate it into the project.

Fortunately for the developers, the city was set to abandon the alley anyway as part of a plan to bury utility lines from 15th to North Division streets along Baltimore Avenue.

While funding for that project is up in the air following a significant bump in cost estimates, city officials are advancing right-of-way abandonment

Lettersefforts.are going out now to inform owners within the project area that the city is abandoning and returning land near their properties. Plans call to bury all of the power, cable and phone lines in the designated area underground to bolster the grid against powerful storms that take down utility poles and power lines, and to create a more attractive aesthetic downtown.

Any property owner can ask to expedite the abandonment, but to date, only the Margaritaville developers have taken advantage of the opportunity.Several members of the public, primarily representatives of a neighboring condominium complex and representives for several Harrison Group-owned hotels, have objected to the abandonment of the alley, and all Margaritaville-related requests, from the outset. Attorneys have argued that developers are creating special circumstances to push a project through that is not right for the area.Council President James has also consistently voted against requests from the Margaritaville developers. Specifically, he said the alley abandonment seemed “rushed.”

At Monday’s meeting, Vince Gisriel, a city resident and former councilman who’s been a consistent critic of most all government spending, objected to the abandonment.

He said that the move will create a bad precedent for future property owners who want the city to abandon similar pieces of property. Gisriel has also objected to the Margaritaville project overall, stating that a better use likely exists for the property.

The massive Margaritaville resort is planned for the middle of downtown and in its current state, will stand out significantly at the confluence of the upper and lower corridors.

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

An alley known as Washington Lane between 13th and 14th streets along Baltimore Avenue has been abandoned by the city at the request of the developer of a proposed Margaritaville resort planned for the surrounding property.

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) Members of the resort Tourism Commission covered a lot of ground at a meeting Sept. 12. Some of the highlights are as follows:

PAC shows

Ocean City convention center staff members think the performing arts center may have found its niche with a series of upcoming Broadwaythemed shows.

Larry Noccolino, the executive director of the Ocean City convention center, told Tourism Commission members that tickets are selling fast for “Chicago the Musical,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” and “Hairspray,” set for dates in October and November.

He added that an upcoming performance by comedian Bill Engvall is nearly sold out as well, proving that audiences appreciate a variety of options. Officials set a goal to host one or two shows a month in the Performing Arts Center.

Staff members also announced “The Greatest Piano Men” as the act for the mayor’s New Year’s concert. The show will feature the music of famed piano players such as Ray Charles, Elton John, Bill Joel and StevieTomWonder.Perlozzo, the city’s director of tourism and business development, said this year’s concert is set for Saturday, Dec. 30. The date was moved from New Year’s Eve because the holiday falls on a Sunday this year, and officials had concerns about the concert interfering with NFL football games.Toget more information about the shows at the PAC, including ways to buy tickets, visit ocmdperformingartscenter.com.

Welcome Center revamp

The welcome center inside the Ocean City Convention Center is undergoing a Perlozzoremodel.toldcommission members that the space, which serves as the first impression for many tourists at its location on the south side of the 40th Street facility, is in need of some attention.

Staff have already removed old cards, flags, magazines and plaques, and plan to set up a train garden in November in conjunction with the kick-off of the Winterfest of Lights. The setup will consist of model trains arranged in a circle inside the space. New carpet, paint, chandeliers and a digital wall are also planned for the area next to the center.

“We thought it was really important to reimagine the space,” Perlozzo said.Officials have also talked with staff at the Life Saving Museum downtown to bring in National Geographic elements to build up traffic and promote the facility.

MLK tribute

Martin Luther King Day is expanding into a whole weekend of offerings nextPerlozzoyear. said the convention center will offer events geared toward honoring MLK, with jazz, blues, motown and rhythm performances planned for the February dates.

“We are looking to make it an event weekend,” he said.

The city received a grant that will pay 50 percent of the cost, with the other half to be covered by ticket sales from the performances.

Economic Impact

Tourism officials are preparing to launch an online tool to determine returns on investment for events.

The Economic Impact Calculator, or EIC, will be used to evaluate what works, and what does not, for both new and long-time existing events.

According to officials, the EIC was customized with Ocean City’s tax projections, with the numbers specific to the area. The results will help staff members determine what events are right for weekdays, will serve as a tool to assist council members in deciding to support events, and identify opportunities for tourism grants.

During the Tourism Commission meeting, Councilman John Gehrig expressed a desire to have staff members share the return-on-investment numbers with the council and the pub-

Continued on Page 12

Plans include hotel, amenities

Along with the 265 room-hotel, developers have said the project will include 14,000 square feet of flexible premium meeting space, three outdoor pools, an adjacent indoor pool, a kids club, three restaurants, and a complimentary guest shuttle service, among other details and amenities synonymous with the famous Jimmy Buffett-themed Margaritaville hotels and resorts across the country.

The first floor will house multiple,

high-end retail spots with access from the Boardwalk and 400 guest parking spaces will be included in the design of the building. The parking spaces were set to be all valet, and developers are looking into a bike share or some other type of transportation program for employees.

Plans are also in the works to build employee housing to accommodate the staff. Developers have said a property on 14th Street is under contract for 48 beds for workers.

Seasonal housing coming to Dorchester Street downtown

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) A new three-anda-half-story, 85-room building on Dorchester Street that aims to put a dent in the resort’s seasonal employee housing shortage is officially ready for construction.

At a meeting Tuesday, Ocean City planning commissioners unanimously approved a site plan for a project planned for a 5,000 squarefoot lot at 205 Dorchester St. near the inlet. The empty property is nestled between two modest buildings and currently used for commercial parking.The project will create housing for J-1 work and travel students, H-2B Nonimmigrant Temporary workers, American college students, and anyone else classified as a seasonal employee.Harry How, the president of architect MAD Design Group, said the

TOURISM COMMISSION BRIEFS

Continued from Page 11

lic in the near future.

At a council meeting Monday, he reiterated that point, and asked for the presentation to be placed on an agenda before the upcoming election.

“The fear that’s been propagated, inundated in this community is that advertising is a sin,” Gehrig said. “That we don’t need it, that if we just gave it back to our taxpayers we’d lower our taxes, and that everyone knows who Ocean City is because we’re the beach and everyone should know us and if they don’t then we don’t want them.”

building will accommodate 85 people, who will be divided into rooms of eight to 16, with one manager’s room, on the top two floors. The bottom floor will have a dining area, two kitchens and small living areas. The residential floors will also include living spaces, which How said are bigger than the 250 square feet city code requires.

“We’ve gone above and beyond,” he said of the plans.

He said the floor will be open and accessible, with anybody able to get from one floor to the next.

Due to its classification as a rooming, boarding or lodging house, no parking was required for the project, as the residents are not expected to own cars. Members of the city’s Board of Zoning Appeals officially waived parking requirements at a meeting in PlanningNovember.commissioners were impressed with the project, and approved the site plan unanimously.

He argued that money should be invested in advertising to attract tourists and visitors, who ultimately create the revenue that keeps officials from having to raise taxes.

Gehrig said he wants to be sure voters are educated about the numbers before the city election on Nov. 8. The ballot will include a decision on an ordinance that will allow for the gradual increase of the department’s budget by a set 0.2 percent from 2023 to Council2025.President Matt James agreed to add Gehrig’s request for the presentation to a future agenda.

RENDERING COURTESY MAD DESIGN GROUP

A rendering shows the design of a planned three-and-a-half-story, 85-room seasonal housing building slated for a currently empty lot at 205 Dorchester St.

Boardwalk e-Bikes getting closer to approval

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) In the name of equality, Ocean City Council members are determined to find a way to allow electric bikes to travel the Boardwalk alongside regular peddlers.

However they must first come to a consensus with law enforcement officials on regulations to ensure the sometimes zippy vehicles and their riders follow specified rules and do not create a nuisance.

At a meeting Monday, several council members weighed in on reports from the Police Commission and Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee on options to permit eBikes on the boards. They are currently prohibited, which City Manager Terry McGean has said creates a tricky situation in terms of compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

As it stands, the law could be interpreted to argue that the city is violating the rights of people with disabilities by not allowing e-Bikes, which would give some people greaterMembersmobility.of both committees agreed that certain types of mobile bikes should be allowed for disabled individuals. However, enforcement and regulation could be tricky.

BPAC members drew on state laws to produce a list of proposed regulations. They included allowing Class 1 e-Bikes on the Boardwalk in compliance with ADA regulations, but only for disabled individuals, during posted biking hours.

Electric bikes, which are classified as “other power-driven mobility devices,” or OPDMDs, have three levels. The first two levels have a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour and the third has a maximum speed of 28 miles per hour. Committee members

also suggested posting a speed limit of 10 miles per hour for the e-Bikes on the Bowardwalk and requiring riders to obtain registration tickets from the public safety building.

Councilman Tony DeLuca, who serves as chairman of the BPAC, read off the suggestions at Monday’s council meeting while presenting the minutes. He said BPAC members intended to relay the information to members of the Police Commission.

Councilman Lloyd Martin, chairman of the Police Commission, said

Monday that members concluded after their e-Bike discussion that city officials need to be proactive.

“I’m hoping that something good comes out of it and we can find a good way to regulate e-Bikes on the Boardwalk,” Martin said. “Allow them. That way everybody’s allowed to ride on the Boardwalk.”

After DeLuca’s presentation, Councilman John Gehrig spoke up against the registration suggestion. He said it would create too many

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Bicyclists ride along the Boardwalk on a recent morning. Ocean City Council members are working with staff members to come up with a way to allow e-Bikes to join regular bicycles during designated hours.

Boardwalk marathon events set for upcoming fall dates

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) Two running-related events are officially on the books for the upcoming fall season on the Ocean City Boardwalk.

First, on Oct. 30, the “Run the Boards like Rob 5K” will commence at South Division Street.

Council members approved a request for the event, which features a 5K and a one-mile race that benefit the Salisbury University Alumni Association.

The runs honor 2000 SU graduate and former almuni president Rob Schultheis, who lost his life while running in 2015. Minus a move to a virtual platform in 2020, the races have been held annually for years on the Boardwalk in Schultheis’ honor.

Set 8 a.m. to noon on Oct. 30, routes for both races will begin and end on the Boardwalk at South Division Street, according to a city staff report. Partici-

pants in the 5K will run north to 19th Street and turn around, while the onemile runners will head to Third Street and circle back.

The organizer will set up an inflatable arch on the Boardwalk at South Division, up to three 10-by-10-foot tents on the concrete pad east of the route, and traffic cones at the turnaround points. City staff members required the organizer to obtain necessary tent or inflatable structure permits and warned against stacking or tacking any temporary structures onto existing hard surfaces.

The staff report said the organizer will pay the town $350 in private event fees.About a month later, a Thanksgiving-themed 5K is planned for the same spot.According to a city staff report, the inaugural Ocean City 5K Turkey Trot, tentatively set to commence at 8 a.m on

See TURKEY Page 16

Stickers, disability proof chided

Continued

hoops for people to jump through.

“Making people come, get a sticker to be able to ride a bike on the Boardwalk seems like overkill,” he said.

He pointed out that it would create an unfair burden on e-Bikes riders that regular bicyclists do not have to endure. Not to mention that it is the rider, not the bike, that is the issue, no matter what type of device they are

“It’sriding.the behavior that’s the issue, not the bike, right?,” he said.

Councilman Mark Paddack agreed with Gehrig and added that asking about disabilities is a slippery slope.

“What right do we have to ask a

person about what their disability is? We don’t. And as a former policeman I know that,” he said.

DeLuca interjected that BPAC members were not suggesting asking people about their disabilities, just simply if they are disabled, to issue the registration tickets, as that is all that is legally allowed.

The council members agreed to direct McGean to connect with law enforcement officials and invite the police commission to a work session to hash out the regulations. The move was suggested in lieu presenting the information at a Police Commission meeting, as bringing the two bodies together will save time.

City wants visitors to ‘Enjoy Fall’ with tips

(Sept. 23, 2022) This fall, thousands of visitors will be coming to Ocean City to experience the autumn weather and participate in its many seasonal events.

“Our fall season is a favorite time of year for our locals and vacationers alike,” said Mayor Rick Meehan. “While we are excited to welcome everyone this season, we want to make sure everyone stays safe during theirThestay.”Town of Ocean City would like to remind residents and guests of the following tips so everyone can stay safe and “Enjoy Fall” in Ocean City.•

ditions, including the presence of rip currents.Swimmers should exercise extreme caution. The Ocean City Beach Patrol will be on duty through Sunday, Sept. However,25.stands are farther apart, so beachgoers should remember to swim near a lifeguard and to keep your feet in the sand until the lifeguard is in the stand!

• Walk, Drive, and Bike Smart: When navigating through Ocean City, whether on foot, by bicycle, or in a vehicle, remember to keep your full attention on the roadway.

Smart campaign focus on helping residents and visitors reach their destination safely and stay safe while in OceanCheswickCity. reminds pedestrians to Walk Smart with the following tips:

• Press the crosswalk button before crossing Coastal Highway.

• Cross at and within marked crosswalks.•Follow all traffic signal signs and lane markings. Look, pay attention, then cross.

• Slow down. Watch for pedestrians and yield to pedestrians, especially when turning.

• Keep your eyes on the road.

• Avoid all distractions. It’s illegal to text and use hand-held devices while driving.

• Share the road with bicyclists and give 3 feet of space when passing.

• Check your rearview and/or side mirror for bikes in the bike lane before turning right.

• Avoid driving in bus lanes.

Keep Your Feet In The Sand

Until the Lifeguard Is In the Stand: Ocean City beaches have recently been experiencing strong ocean con-

Correction

In an article titled “Additional Burley Oak parking in jeopardy” in the Sept. 16 edition of Ocean City Today, Burley Oak’s owner Bryan Brushmiller’s last name was misspelled. We regret our error.

It is imperative to be free from distractions like texting, using music or mobile devices and eating and drinking while driving. Cheswick and the OC Walk Smart, Drive Smart, Bike

• Make eye contact and be seen by drivers.Cheswick reminds drivers to Drive Smart:•Drive

sober: Never drive a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs.

• Stop for pedestrians at crosswalks. It’s the law in Maryland.

Turkey trot set for Thanksgiving

Continued from Page 15

Nov. 24, will benefit Diakonia.

Similar to the Run like Rob races, the route will begin at South Division and run to 16th Street. The staff report said the event will be over by 10:30 a.m., with cleanup finished no later than noon.The city’s public works department

will provide a judge’s stand, and police will routinely check on the event at no charge. The staff report said no other staff are set to provide services for the event, as it is set on a holiday when most of them are home with their families.

The organizer was charged a total $212.50 in private event, and asset and support fees.

Cheswick also reminds bicyclists to Bike Smart:

• Stop at all red lights and stop signs.•Ride in the direction of traffic flow.•Do not ride on the sidewalk. It’s illegal and dangerous.

• Ride sober. Never ride a bicycle while impaired by alcohol or drugs.

• Avoid distractions and pay attention.• Use bike lights if riding after dark.“There is plenty to enjoy this fall in Ocean City, but we want to make sure everyone does so safety,” Mayor Meehan said. “Whether you are here for one of our great fall events or just enjoy the crisp ocean air, remember to put safety first this busy fall season.”

County to post public notices in local papers

Publication’s rise in ad fees push Worcester officials to seek alternative platforms

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) After experiencing rising advertising costs from a regional publication, the Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday agreed to begin posting all public notices online and in locally circulated papers only, to keep readers informed.

The commissioners approved removing language from the county’s code requiring public notices to be published in a legally recognized paper of general circulation, which they have interpreted to mean in this case to mean the Daily Times in Salisbury.

Commissioner Chip Bertino moved

Roscoe Leslie

to approve the changes to the county code if the requirement to advertise in newspapers remains, even if that meant continuing to advertise in local publications like the Maryland Coast Dispatch and Ocean City Today/Ocean City Digest.

Bertino asked County Attorney Roscoe Leslie if the motion would save the county any money and was told money would be Commissionersaved.Josh Nordstrom then said he wanted to see the newspaper language removed from the code and only require public notices to go up on the website, which Leslie said would be completely legal.

Bertino, though, said there was still

a portion of the population who are not internet savvy and who rely on newspapers for information.

“I think we have a responsibility to our taxpayers,” Bertino said.

Nordstrom said he wanted to be able to inform as many people as possible, noting the reason this issue was introduced was because the ad fees from the Daily Times went up.

The county also has an advertising contract with Ocean City Today/Ocean City Digest. That was agreed upon in by county officials on the premise that Ocean City

Today/Ocean City Digest would satisfy the legal and public interest requirements in the north end of the county and that the Daily Times/Worcester County Times would cover southern Worcester.

“Really, the sky’s the limit on how much they (the Daily Times) can charge,” Nordstrom said.

Leslie told the commissioners the term, “general circulation,” could be defined however they want.

When it came to a vote, the commissioners approved the changes 6-1 with Nordstrom opposed.

Joint meet between council, planning commission Tues.

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) After years of working parallel with little to no direct communication, members of the Ocean City Council and the Ocean City Planning Commission are finally getting into one room to hash out theirNextdifferences.Tuesday’s council work session, set for 1 p.m., will be a joint meeting between the two bodies that according to some, is long overdue.

Planning Commissioner Palmer Gillis said he and several of his colleagues have been asking to meet face-to-face with the council for years but nothing was ever scheduled. Now, with several hot topics that fall into both bodies’ purviews coming up for discussions and decisions, a meeting was finally set.

One topic that will undoubtedly come up is the role of commissioners and council members in approving code amendments.

At a meeting several weeks ago, council members opted to rapidly shut down two proposed code amendments that planning commis-

sioners spent many hours discussing andThedebating.movewas made quickly, without any discussion. Several of the council members chastised the planning commissioners for tackling the amendments without consulting them to determine if there was interest in passing them. Council members said they expected to discuss the proposed amendments, along with several others, at the joint meeting.

At a following planning commission meeting, Gillis and Commission Chairwoman Pam Buckley balked at the council’s rejection of the amendments and expressed a desire to know what the elected body expects of them.Other topics on the agenda include housing, pyramidal zoning and parking. A welcome section is also included, which consists of introducing new commissioners and reviewing the commission’s roles and responsibilities commission.

The meeting is in City Hall and set for three hours. Officials have also said it could be the first of multiple meetings.

Several positions open up at county correctional facility

(Sept. 23, 2022) Those seeking rewarding, full-time careers in corrections are invited to apply to join the Worcester County team this fall.

Opportunities to meet with Worcester County Jail and Human Resources professionals are available in the Worcester County Government Center’s third floor training room in Snow Hill from noon to 3 p.m. on the following dates: Oct. 20, Nov. 17, and Dec. 15.

Meet with corrections professionals, learn more about career training and advancement, and submit an application onsite.

Certified and non-certified applicants are welcome to apply. Prior experience is not required.

Worcester County provides paid training, a welcoming, team-centered environment, full benefits, career advancement opportunities, and membership in the Maryland State Retirement System.

To learn more about open positions at the WCJ or to apply online, visit

Paddack investigation remains inconclusive

told police he believed his Facebook account was hacked and as a result, he was being bashed on the social media platform after a screen shot of the post was shared.

and removed it from their system.

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) An investigation into racist comments allegedly made by Ocean City Councilman Mark Paddack last year has ended and the results are Accordinginconclusive.tothe Worcester County Sheriff’s Office final report, there is no way to tell whether Paddack made the alleged comments on social media on Sept. 11, 2021, since they could not be tracked to any of his personal devices, though the source IP address was from his home in North Ocean City.

According to police, it is possible for dynamic IP addresses to be masked, allowing anyone to appear to be using a computer from a specific IP address. But where the messages were sent from that night, remains unknown.TheSheriff’s Office was alerted to the posts at approximately 3:20 p.m. on Sept. 11 after Ocean City Police forwarded Paddack’s complaint about a series of posts made from his Facebook account the night before.

Paddack, according to the report,

The shared screen shot was of a comment made from Paddack’s account on a woman’s post that contained an image of her husband standing in a doorway with his hat on backward.Paddack was accused of telling the woman, “Tell the dude to turn his hat back where the white designed the hat to be worn. Where I come from that is a punk. Immature POS.”

Paddack’s post was put on the woman’s account at 12:59 a.m. on Sept. 11, 2021, and as a result, she blockedWhenPaddack.Paddack became aware of the posts, he immediately said his account was hacked and he was in the process of alerting people at the Sheriff’s Office and the city solicitor of the situation. Paddack also claimed he had been hacked before by a “Walter Neff.” Facebook, Paddack told police, determined Neff was a fake account

On Sept. 10, Paddack told police, he received a suspicious friend request on Facebook and that another friend told him had he received a message from the person who hacked hisDuringaccount.the investigation, police looked at data from three locations –a hard drive, a Samsung Galaxy Note phone, and an archive of Paddack’s FacebookInvestigatorsprofile. determined, after searching through the data, that it is possible to use third-party software to access a user’s Facebook account and post on their behalf. Although the software can be used for legitimate purposes, the only post created in these circumstances led investigators to believe it was unlikely Paddack used the method to create his posts.

“After completing the review… [the investigator] came to the conclusion that the Facebook post in question was more likely than not to have originated from a source other than the complainant,” the report read. “...the [report] does not include enough data to determine the exact method used to gain access to the FacebookAnotheraccount.”pieceof the investigation

looked at Paddack’s IP address, and Comcast was able to determine that the posts came from the IP address to his house. After conducting a forensic examination of Paddack’s computer and cellphone, investigators said it did not appear the Facebook posts originated from either device.

“Investigators are unable to determine where the posts originate and therefore are unable to determine who could have made the posts,” the report read. “Case closed.”

Still, the final piece of the investigation was asking Paddack if he could explain how the IP address from his home was where the posts came from, and he could not.

Paddack told police the analysis proved there was no evidence of the message being sent from his devices, which he claims are the only devices he Whenuses. asked if anyone else was at the home that night who may have had access to his devices, he said there was not. He was also asked if anyone may have been given access to his wireless internet that night, and again he said no.

Ultimately, police could not determine where the posts originated and closed the case.

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Ocean City Police Department advises the public and motorists in particular that the resort in its entirety will be designated a Special Event Zone through Sunday, Sept. 25.

The designation is being applied, according to the department’s statement, because of the possibility of an influx of the small tuner cars that have flouted motor vehicle laws locally in the past.

The Special Event Zone reduces established speed limits in the zone and increases fines for violations. The maximum speed limit in Ocean City will be 30 mph.

Additionally, legislation signed in 2020 allows for increased penalties for specific motor vehicle violations. Similar to a Construction Zone, violators will face increased fines or, in some cases, arrest.

During this period, residents and visitors should expect to see a significant police presence as officers from multiple allied agencies will be assisting the Ocean City Police Department.Officers from the Ocean City Police Department, Maryland State Police, Maryland Transportation Authority, Natural Resource Police, Queen Anne’s County Sheriff’s Office, and

the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office will strictly enforce all traffic laws, a department statement said.

In addition, significant traffic congestion and alternate traffic patterns are anticipated throughout the weekend.Spectators are urged to keep the sidewalks clear for pedestrian traffic and should not incite the spinning of wheels or “burn-outs” by motorists.

Officers will enforce all laws for spectators who incite drivers and enforce the violations with the driver.

Further, with high pedestrian traffic expected, pedestrians should remember to “ Walk Smart!” always use crosswalks when crossing roadways, wait for the signal to change, and be sure drivers see you while crossing.

Mark

BikeFest delivers good times along with some tragedy

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) Another OC BikeFest is in the books, and along with the thundering financial success the event usually brings to town, it also delivered some tragedy.

Area police also responded to two fatal motorcycle crashes during the event. The first occurred on Sept. 14 when Ocean City Police attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Nicholas Ramirez, 32, of Deltona, Florida.

When officers tried to stop Ramirez, he fled on a motorcycle. The officers did not pursue Ramirez, but a description of him was relayed to officers.Ashort time later, police said, there was a motorcycle collision at 100th Street and the victim was Ramirez.Hewas flown by Maryland State Police Trooper 4 to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in Salisbury, where he died of his injuries.

State Police also responded to a motorcycle crash at approximately 4:40 p.m. on Sept. 15 in Whaleyville near Routes 50 and 610. A preliminary report of the crash found that Richard Banning, 61, of Virginia was

traveling south on 610 on a HarleyDavidson motorcycle with a 69-yearold woman riding on the back.

Banning, police said, attempted to cross Route 50 when he was struck by a Nissan Rogue traveling westbound on Route Banning50.was flown to the University of Maryland R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore for treatment of his injuries, where he died.His passenger was flown to Tidal-

See MOTORCYCLE Page 22

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY Motorcycles lined up in a parking lot near 94th Street where vendors were set up for OC BikeFest last weekend. Vendors also had tents at the convention center and inlet lot.

Brass knuckles

Christian Robert Horn, 21, of Glen Burnie, Maryland was arrested by Ocean City Police at approximately 5 a.m. on Sept. 18 near 30th Street and charged with three counts of concealing a weapon and two counts of possessing metal knuckles

Police stopped Horn for speeding and when he was searched, the officers found two knives and two pairs of brass knuckles.

Weapons

Joshua Earl Bignell, 33, of Waynesboro, Pennsylvania was arrested by Ocean City Police at approximately 3:45 p.m. on Sept. 18 near 29th Street and charged with possession of a spring-assisted opening knife and possession of a mace-like club.

Police said Bignell was riding a motorcycle and wearing a helmet with a red and white colored diamond with a “1%” inside the diamond. The officer noted that the symbol related to a motorcycle gang and followed Bignell.

Police said the office following Bignell noticed a long lanyard hanging from his handlebars with a round object at the bottom referred to as a “Cracker.”Because the device worked like a flail mace of the Middle Ages, police said it was a weapons ordinance vio-

lation. Police tracked Bignell to his room and placed him under arrest.

Police also found that Bignell was a member of the Thunderguards, a motorcycle gang involved in crime that carries weapons on their bikes. Bignell was escorted out of the building and searched, which also found he was in possession of a spring-assisted knife.

Cocaine

Hector Rafael Melendez, 51, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania was arrested by Ocean City Police at approximately 1 a.m. on Sept. 17 near 82nd Street and charged with possession of drugs and DWI after he was stopped for speeding 55 mph in a 40-mph zone.

Once stopped, police said, officers could smell alcohol on Melendez’s breath, and he told them he drank six beers earlier that night.

Melendez was arrested and searched, resulting in the discovery of a plastic baggie containing suspected cocaine, police said.

Crack cocaine

Ashley Browne, 34, of Penns Grove, New Jersey was arrested by Ocean City Police at approximately 1:45 a.m. on Sept. 17 near Dolphin Street and charged with possession of drugs and

Continued on Page 24

Police arrest Darlington duo on suspicion of selling meth

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) A Maryland couple was arrested last weekend for possession of narcotics, which Ocean City Police suspected was for distribution.Jennifer

Lee Fincham, 36, and Richard Charles Schluter, 44, both of Darlington, Maryland were arrested by Ocean City Police at approximately 11 p.m. on Sept. 17 near 23rd Street for drug-distributionPolicecharges. said Schluter was stopped for an equipment violation and when asked for his license, registration, and insurance, he could only provide his license.After running a check on the car, police determined the registration expired nearly a year ago, and because the car was parked on the street, it needed to be towed.

When officers searched the vehicle, they found a digital scale in a black bag on the floorboard of the rear passenger side seat, a wallet with more than 8 grams of suspected methamphetamine, and $103, leading police to believe the methamphetamine was for distribution. When Fincham was searched, she was found to be in possession of Psilocybin mushrooms and

one Tramadol pill.

Schluter told officers there was a handgun in the vehicle under the driver’s seat, and officers were able to locate the loaded 9mm handgun. Schluter also told police he had a Maryland concealed carry permit, though police discovered it was expired and not valid.

Police also found a clear bag with methamphetamine in the driver’s doorSchluterpocket.agreed to speak to officers without a lawyer and said he collects rocks and the dust in the bag was from rocks he collects.Afurther search of the vehicle produced a black fixed-blade knife, a mini ax, a digital scale, a stun gun, wooden ax handle, bullet-resistant body armor, a straw with suspected methamphetamine residue on it, and a baseball bat with bolts screwed into the barrel.

Schluter and Fincham were charged with possession of drugs other than marijuana with distribution intent. Schluter also picked up charges of possession of a loaded handgun in a vehicle, concealing a deadly weapon, use of a handgun in a felonious or violent crime, possession of a fighting knife, operating an unregistered vehicle, and several other registration-related charges.

Motorcycle clubs visit resort

Continued from Page 21

Health Peninsula Regional Hospital in Salisbury and treated for her injuries.The accident remains under investigation.Meanwhile, several motorcycle clubs, including the Pagans and Outlaws, were in town over the weekend. Police logged several incidents involving 1%ers, including the arrest of Joshua Earl Bignell, 33, of Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, who was arrested on Sept. 18 and charged a weaponsPoliceviolation.alsoresponded to the area of Eighth Street at 12:42 p.m. on Sept. 17 for a six-motorcycle crash that resulted in two lanes of Philadelphia being shut down for approximately 10 minutes.

The motorcycles were moved onto

Eighth Street to allow officers to complete the accident exchange forms and no injuries were reported.

Just before the accident, police were called to 12th Street for “an intelligence-related incident.”

According to reports, rival motorcycle gangs were in the area, so officers responded as a proactive measure – no arrests were made in the incident, and a nearby restaurant ultimately decided to shut down for theAltogether,evening. Ocean City Police reported that from Sept. 14-18, officers responded to 1,068 calls for service, of which 332 were from citizens and 736 initiated by the department.

Of those calls for service, 31 were accidents, 38 were arrests, and seven were DUIs.

Jennifer Fincham Richard Schluter

paraphernalia.Accordingto court documents, police were approached by Browne, who was seeking a ride to the police department until she could get a ride back to New Jersey.

Police said Browne gave consent to be searched, and during the search, the officer found a glass pipe with suspected crack cocaine residue and several baggies of cocaine.

Motorcycle theft

Omar Rashard Davis, 34, of Washington, D. C.  was arrested by Ocean City Police at approximately 4:45 a.m. on Sept. 17 near Dorchester Street and charged with vehicle theft.

Police responded to a complaint of several people sleeping in a Kia Soul, includingParkedDavis.nextto the Kia was a motorcycle, and when police ran the VIN, it was discovered the bike had been reported stolen on Sept. 7 in Alexandria,AccordingVirginia. to police, Davis said he borrowed the motorcycle from a friend to ride during Bike Week.

When asked if that friend was the registered owner of the motorcycle, Davis said he was not sure. After failing to provide the friend’s contact in-

formation, Davis was arrested.

Concealed weapon

Ethan Linwood Bryant, 24, of Salisbury was arrested by Ocean City Police at approximately 6 p.m. on Sept. 17 near South First Street and charged with possession of a deadly concealed weapon after reportedly walking into the BikeFest grounds with a 6-8-inch knife he purchased from a nearby vendor. Bryant was also in possession of a silver skull ring with two spikes sticking out

Cocaine and meth

Michael James Kenenske, 50, of Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania was arrested by Ocean City Police at approximately 11:15 p.m. on Sept. 16 near 114th Street and charged with concealing a deadly weapon, possession of narcotics, possession of drug paraphernalia, disorderly conduct and knifePolicepossession.responded to reports of a disorderly man on a bus. According to the caller, the man removed a plastic cover from a hatchet, was yelled at by passengers to put the hatchet away, and was then kicked off the bus near Channel Buoy Road.

Police located the man, later iden-

tified as Kenenske, who was walking on the sidewalk with a what police believed was the hatchet tucked under his arm. Police said Kenenske was ordered to place the object on the ground, and he complied.

Kenenske was then placed under arrest for concealing a deadly weapon.When searched, police said, Kenenske was found to be in possession of suspected cocaine, a small glass smoking device with white powder residue, suspected crystal methamphetamine, another glass smoking device and metal knuckles.

Child abuse

Derek John Premo, 41, of Charles Town, West Virginia was arrested by Ocean City Police at approximately 8 p.m. on Sept. 17 near 101st Street and charged with assault and child abuse.Police responded to a nearby hotel for reports of domestic assault, where employees told them a fight occurred between a father and a daughter.Thestaff members informed officers that a father strangled his daughter, and several witnesses pointed to the ground, where there were several spots of fresh blood.

Responding officers met with Premo, who said he and his family returned from the beach to get ready for dinner. Police said the entire time Premo spoke, he kept referring to his daughter’s anxiety, never blaming the incident on his daughter.

The juvenile, he told officers, began to have an episode in the vehicle at the parking lot. He went downstairs to get the juvenile, grabbed her firmly by the shoulders and she blacked out, he said. The blood came from a bloody nose, he told officers, and without physical contact he could not understand how.

When officers spoke to the mother, she said the daughter was an emotional teenager and Premo is difficult to deal with.

The daughter told police that Premo was drunk and yelling so she went downstairs. When Premo went down to find her, the two began arguing, she said, when he put his hands around her throat and head against the wall to the point, she could not breath.Witnesses told police when Premo strangled the daughter, her feet were suspended several inches off the ground. He then struck her in the face with his elbow, witnesses said, and she became unconscious and fell to the ground.

Berlin’s forConventionFiddlersback30threndition

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) There will be plenty of loot on the line this weekend as the Berlin Fiddlers Convention returns for its 30th year.

The three-day celebration of bluegrass music will feature both professional and amateur artists. The weekend will kick off with a locals’ party in front of the Sterling Tavern on Friday at 6:30 p.m., featuring the String Buzzards and Tom Finch.

Saturday will go from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and feature a vendors’ market offering various fare, including the Burley Oaks truck and a beer wagon offering a variety of drinks. There will be arts, snacks and children’s activities as well, according to Ryan Nellans, executive administrator for the Berlin Chamber of Commerce.

On Sunday from noon to 3 p.m., after the Berlin Farmers Market, artists Stevenson Crossroads will play at the Calvin B. Taylor House during a gospel jam.

“It’s just a good time,” Nellans said. “We only have a handful of really big events we throw ourselves into. ‘Fiddlers’ is on par with the (Berlin) Bathtub Races as far as intensity and what we are trying to bring to the town.”

Nellans said the chamber has a “fat stack” of cash prizes to give away following the marquee bluegrass competitions on Saturday.

“We have the fiddlers — first place $300. National flat-picking competition — a ridiculous prize of $250, a

brand-new guitar and a trophy. Then we have more of a streamlined approach. We’re going to have a youth open — any instrument as long as it’s bluegrass — and the same thing for adults,” Nellans said.

There’ll be first-, second- and third-place ribbons and prize money in those open events. The adult open will give out $200 for first place while the kids’ open will net the winner $150.When accounting for the value of the guitar given away in the flat-pick-

ing competition, Nellans estimated that the chamber will be committing around $2,000 to prizes.

They’re still looking for adults to sign up, Nellans added.

Also on sale will be T-shirts of similar quality and style to the shirts sold at the Bathtub Races.

Anyone driving around Berlin should expect road closures and detours to accommodate the convention, which will shut down Main Street from the Atlantic Hotel at Jefferson Street and Main to the Sterling

Atlantic Club and Worcester Goes Purple walk successful

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Atlantic Club and the Worcester Goes Purple/Warriors joined together to host Walk for Recovery on Sept. 10 during National Recovery Month.

It was the groups’ most successful event. The Atlantic Club recovery fellowship and WGP/Warriors want to thank sponsors, walkers and supporters.The goal was exceeded and along with raising awareness of resources and hope for recovery over $33,000 wasAllgenerated.theproceeds of this event will go into the community to help individuals/families touched by the disease of addiction.

In addition to supporting its missions, together the organizations will fund several scholarships for Worcester County High School students who have been affected by addiction and individuals seeking education who

have at least one year of sobriety. Anyone interested in scholarship information or services can visit Atlanticclub.org.TheAtlantic Club and the WGP are 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations located in Worcester County.

The Atlantic Club is dedicated to helping individuals and their families recover from the disease of addiction.

Its mission is to provide individuals the support necessary to live a healthy life in recovery and become an active member of the community.

It offers 12-step programs and sober events. The Club is open 24/7, with a manager on duty at all times, to assist any individual seeking refuge from addiction.

It is the goal of WGP to erase the stigma surrounding addiction through education, awareness and enhance the ability of people to ask for help.

Tavern at Stevenson Lane and Main. A shuttle bus will run from the Berlin Intermediate School to the event.

“It’s going to be a beautiful day to listen to music and drink beer and just hang out downtown,” Nellans said. “(It’ll be) 72 (degrees) and clear. It’s going to be a gorgeous, gorgeous weekend.”Formore information about the Berlin Fiddlers Convention, berconventionhttps://berlinchamber.org/fiddlers-visitorcalltheBerlinCham-ofCommerceat410-641-4775.

Geocaching class presented by Wor. rec and parks Sat.

(Sept. 23, 2022) Worcester County Recreation and Parks is bringing a new program to its lineup, Basic Geocaching.Thisclass will teach participants what geocaches are, their history, and how to get started finding them.

The class will meet on Saturday, Sept. 24, from 1-3 p.m. at the Worcester County Recreation Center, located at 6030 Public Landing Road in SnowInstructorsHill.

and local geocachers

Bob and Prudy Robertson will teach the class. The price for a family of four is $35, or $20 per individual. All adventure seekers are invited to register.

For more information contact Trudy Gebhardt at 410-632-2144 x2514 or email tgebhardt@marylandscoast.org. To view more upcoming programs and special events visit, www.playmarylandscoast.org.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS, SR.

TheWELCOMEKiwanisClub of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean

City welcomed Marlene Ott, associate broker with BHHS PenFed Realty, as its guest speaker on Aug. 31. She is pictured with Kiwanis Club President Tim Lund.

The annual Berlin Fiddlers Convention filled Main Street with music fans drawn for an afternoon of grin-inducing picking last year. The 2022 event is slated for this Saturday.

OCGUARDBeach Patrol off duty until May

By Kristin Joson Contributing Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) As you take a walk along the beach next week you won’t see the familiar white lifeguard stands.

The Beach Patrol will officially end the 2022 guarding season this Sunday, Sept.During25. our guarding season, surf rescue technicians (SRTs) are in stands and fulfilling all three parts of our mission (education, prevention, and intervention) daily between 10 a.m. and 5:30Afterp.m.this Sunday, the lifeguard stands will be removed quickly from the beach, and we will no longer position SRTs along Ocean City’s beach until May 2023.

At this time of year, it is important for people to realize that the Beach Patrol is off duty, and they should not participate in water related activities until it is back on duty next Memorial Day weekend.Werealize that despite our warnings, a warm sunny day, even in October, will tempt some people to make the very poor decision to venture into the ocean. Please heed our warnings.

The same rip current hazards that exist during our season, when we are making hundreds of rescues (over 3,500 this season), are still present now and could possibly be more treacherous due to tropical storm activity that is typical for this time each year.

The second week in September is the peak of hurricane season.

The ocean is no less dangerous than it was in late August and September.

We have experienced an increase in wave action, surf and water rescues in recentThisweeks.resulted in several rescues since Labor Day for the OCBP pulling people out of rip currents and making rescues under challenging circumstances with stands several blocks further apart than during the regular season (16 at 1,100 yards vs 91 at 193 yards during the

summer).Hadsome

of these situations occurred when the Beach Patrol was not on duty there would have been multiple tragedies and families devastated.

Unfortunately, six years ago during this time of the year, just 90 minutes after the guards had removed everyone from the ocean and left for the day (7 p.m.), it did turn tragic, when a man went out to swimming when guards were not on duty.

His family and everyone involved are still feeling the heartbreak from this easily avoidable tragedy, six years later.Again, less than 48 hours later a J-1 student worker from Ireland loss his life when he and some friends choose to swim at 6 a.m. after a night out.

Swimming only when and where surf rescue technicians were on duty would have prevented both avoidable deaths.Starting Monday, Sept. 26, the stands will be pulled off the beach and lifeguards will no longer report for duty. We will be working to close down from the 2022 season, prepare our equipment for winter storage and begin preparations for the 2023 season.Even though we no longer have lifeguards on the beach, we will maintain an off-the-beach presence for a few more weeks, through Columbus Day Monday, with our Mobil Rescue Units.

Unfortunately, unless someone calls 911 and lets us know someone is in danger, we will not be aware of the need to respond although we may be only a few blocks away.

These Mobil Rescue Units consist of one SRT (rider) acting as the primary rescue swimmer while the other SRT (driver) maintains radio communication and backup during an emergency.

Both are qualified as surf rescue technicians and are quad (ATV) certified.Although Ocean City Fire/EMS are ready and willing to respond to surf rescues, (the OCBP has trained a group of fire/EMS personnel as rescue swim-

mers), the Beach Patrol is the agency that is trained and equipped specifically for this mission.

Having these mobile units and surf rescue technicians already prepared for a possible response, effectively reduces the time from the original 911 call to victim contact and will hopefully result in a successful intervention.

But we want to remind you, that even with these public safety personnel available, the time you have to survive (under two minutes) if drowning, is gambling with your life, it just isn’t worthTheit!OCBP will be in response mode like the paramedics or police.

Typically, the nearest mobile rescue unit will respond to the “swimmer in trouble” call, forwarded by a 911 dispatcher.Having the mobile units prepared makes the OCBP one step closer if someone needs assistance, but still takes valuable time, that the victim may not Whenhave.arescue is needed, the rescue swimmer initiates the intervention while the driver who is also a trained rescue swimmer maintains radio contact with the Ocean City Communications Center and acts as backup to the initial rescuer and requests additional resources should the situation require any (EMS, Police, Coast Guard, etc.).

Without the Mobil Rescue Units, a call to 911 would be answered in Snow Hill and then be transferred to Ocean City Communications who would then dispatch the nearest available EMS unit and fire department personnel.

Although Ocean City emergency response time is the fastest in the nation, during a drowning situation, where minutes count, this process may take tragically too long.

The Beach Patrol’s response to this circumstance is to have Mobile Rescue Units already staffed and standing by throughout town as they perform closedown tasks.

It is important however that people do not depend on these Mobile Rescue

See OCBP Page 29

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Teaching what you know to others is a continuous theme for you this week, Aries. You want to impart wisdom any way that you can and you’ll have the opportunity to do so.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, you’ll finally gain greater control over your thoughts this week when someone close to you helps you see the bigger picture. Now you can focus on important things.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Your love life may seem confusing this week, Gemini. It may wax and wane from fevered passion to apathy. Rough patches are not unusual and you need to see this through.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, a change in routine is necessary. Lately you may have been feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities, so take time to figure out what you need to do.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

A turning point in your love life may come this week, Leo. It may hit you in a most unexpected way. Even a relatively simple gesture may sway your feelings.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, your social circle could open up this week and expand your prospects even further. Use the new connections to get out of the house more than ever before.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

An unexpected financial windfall could come your way this week, Libra. While it could be tempting to spend all this extra money right away, save some for a rainy day.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Your desire for excitement could lead you on a wild goose chase, Scorpio. You may find that it’s not excitement you need, just a change of scenery. Book a trip.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, this week you may find that one day you are calm and collected, and the next you are all riled up. Find a balance between them both to get through the days.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, though making sudden changes in your life seems like a good idea, it’s best to take some time mulling things over before you dive into any new situations.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Even the best plans can use a little tweaking from time to time. Go with the flow, Aquarius. Enjoy this more laid back approach and consider taking it more often.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, a professional change will happen soon. All that hard work you have been putting in is sure to pay off in the weeks ahead.

Units as if they are lifeguards protecting their love ones.

Without educating the public and actively preventing potential incidents the Beach Patrol is unable to fulfill its mission and work in a proactive manner, therefore we are in a reactionary mode and cannot provide the coverage that the public is accustomed to during our regular guarding season.

We have seen too many times when swimming without lifeguards and poor judgment turns into a tragedy with the loss of a life.

Our saying, “Keep your feet in the sand until the lifeguard’s in the stand!,” is a friendly reminder of the very serious warning, to only swim when lifeguards are on duty.

The first priority of the Ocean City Beach Patrol continues to be public safety.Therefore, the Beach Patrol strongly encourages all beach patrons to restrict any beach or water-related activities to times and locations when and where personnel are on duty, never swim alone, always stay with the limits of your swimming ability and never rely on a flotation device in place of your swimming ability.

Since the Beach Patrol is off duty

until May 2023 and we have explained the dangers of swimming unprotected, we do not expect to see you or anyone you care about in the ocean until Memorial Day weekend.

If you do see a swimmer in distress do not attempt to go in after them, or you may become an additional victim.

Especially tragic are the number of parents that have died in Ocean City while attempting to rescue their children who they have allowed to swim without lifeguards on duty.

Even our most experienced personnel (20-plus years as an ocean lifeguard) who are now parents, don’t let their children swim on an unguarded beach, even though they personally have rescued hundreds from the Ocean CityWesurf.have seen too many cases where someone has tried to rescue a distressed swimmer and has drowned in theInstead,attempt.immediately call 911, know the location of the incident, follow the victim along the beach and remain on the scene until rescue personnel arrive and identify yourself to them.

If the person goes under the water before rescuers arrive, it is important to mark the last seen position of the victim with a landmark on the beach to

aid the rescues with the search.

If the person does manage to rescue themselves, please let the responding personnel know that they are safely on shore.We at the Beach Patrol want to thank Ocean City Today for allowing us to have a weekly safety education feature.The

Beach Patrol’s mission has three focuses: education, prevention andWithoutintervention.adoubt, the most obvious and the one that attracts the most attention is intervention when one of our guards blows a whistle, jumps off the stand, runs down the beach, and then swims out to rescue a swimmer in distress.Although this happens several thousand times each season it is not our major focus but rather it is prevention of accidents and injuries through our educational outreach efforts and programs that we make our number one priority.That is why each week we use this space to try and educate all the readers of Ocean City Today

I truly believe that through the exposure in this newspaper that many lives have been saved and will continue to be saved because someone has read

the article or passed on the information that they learned to others.

So, if you have enjoyed this column and have learned any new information about beach or water safety, not only pass it on to others but take the time to thank the editors of Ocean City Today.

Also, if you or someone you know would like to begin the greatest adventure of a lifetime as a surf rescue technician with the Beach Patrol for the 2023 season, visit our website at JoinBeachPatrol.com.Wehaveonemore pre-employment physical skills evaluations in Ocean City for positions during the 2023 season, before we begin off-site testing, starting in March at Salisbury University, University of Maryland and York College before finishing our testing at Ocean Pines and in the Ocean City area.Have a safe fall and winter and we will see you Memorial Day Saturday 2023 when the Beach Patrol will return to duty protecting you and your family.Soplease

don’t let someone you love enter the ocean when the SRTs are not on duty. It is not only dangerous to them but may put others in danger if they attempt to help you in an emergency.

NOW PLAYING

ANGLER RESTAURANT

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

Sept. 23: Aaron Howell, 5 p.m.

Sept. 24: Sidney Joseph, 5 p.m.

Sept. 25: Kasey Briggs, 5 p.m.

Sept. 29: Dawn Williams, 5 p.m.

BAYVIEW BAR & GRILLE

2nd Floor Residence Inn 61st Street, Ocean City 410-723-2222 / www.ResidenceInnOC.com

Sept. 23: Bilenki Duo, 6-9 p.m.

Sept. 25: Bar Bingo w/Rupe, 6-8 p.m.

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

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

Every Friday: 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. 23: Darin Engh, noon to 4 p.m.; Buckskin

Whiskey Trio, 5-9 p.m.

Sept. 24: Kevin Poole & Joe Mama, noon to 4 p.m.;

The Chest Pains, 5-9 p.m.

Sept. 25: Rick & Regina, noon to 3 p.m.; Colossal

Fossil Sauce 4-8 p.m.; Tipsy Turtle Contest PartyParty of the Season

Sept. 26-28: Closed

Sept. 29: Bilenki Duo, noon to 3 p.m.; Kevin Poole & Joe Mama, 4-8 p.m.

COINS

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

Sept. 23: First Class, 7 p.m.

Sept. 24: Jim Long Party 3-6 p.m.

HAMMERHEADS BAR & GRILLE

10th Street and Boardwalk, Ocean City 410-289-0006 / hammerheadsocmd.com

Sept. 23: Steve Bowers, 8 p.m. to midnight

Sept. 24: Troy Mawyer, noon to 4 p.m.; DJ Will-DaBeast, 8 p.m. to midnight

Sept. 25: Endless Ember, noon to 4 p.m.

OC EATERIES

12849 Ocean Gateway, West Ocean City 443-252-3700 / www.oceateriesmaryland.com

Sept. 23 Jason Lee, 5-8 p.m.

Sept. 24: Steve Bowers, 7-10 p.m.

Sept. 28: Trivia Night, 5:30 p.m.

Sept. 29: Karaoke w/DJ Kennedy, 6-10 p.m.

OC FONTAINEBLEAU

101st Street, Ocean City Ocean City Fontainebleau Resort

410-524-3535 / www.ocbeachresort.com

Sept. 23-24: DJ Rachi, 5-9 p.m.

OCEAN 13 SEAFOOD & STEAKHOUSE

32nd Street located in the La Quinta Inn & Suites 410-289-6213Hotel / www.ocean13ocmd.com

Every Friday: Karaoke w/Jeremy, 9 p.m. Sept. 24: John Pheasant, 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

PICKLE’S PUB

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

Sept. 23: Beats by Styler, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Sept. 24: Rougue Citizens, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Sept. 25 Beats by Styler, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Sept. 26: Karaoke w/Wood, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Sept. 27: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Sept. 28: Beats by Styler, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Sept. 29: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

PRINCESS ROYALE

9100 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City 443-856-2367 / www.princessroyale.com

Sept. 24: Ryan Jackson, noon to 4 p.m.

Sept. 29: Frankie Moran, noon to 4 p.m.

PURPLE MOOSE SALOON Boardwalk between Caroline & Talbot Street 410-289-6953 / www.purplemoose.com

Sept. 23: DJ Adam Dutch, 9 p.m.

Sept. 24: Eclipse “Journey Tribute”, 9 p.m.

Sept. 25: DJ Adam Dutch, 9 p.m.

Sept. 26: DJ Rut, 9 p.m.

Sept. 27: DJ Adam Dutch, 9 p.m.

Sept. 28: DJ Papi Roisterous, 9 p.m.

Sept. 29: DJ Adam Dutch, 9 p.m.

SEACRETS

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

Sept. 23: High Five Swan Dive Trio, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Bobby-O, 6 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; Last Last Night, 9 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.; DJ Tuff, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Turning the Tide, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Sept. 24: John McNutt Band, 5-9 p.m.; Beach Closing Party, 5 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; DJ Bobby-O, 6 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 9 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.; Band of Make Believe, 9 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.; Steal the Sky, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Sept. 25: Football Sunday, noon to 8 p.m.

Sept. 26: Believe in Tomorrow Children’s Foundation 2022 Beach Bash!, 5-10 p.m.

Sept. 29: Full Circle Duo, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Connair, 9 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

SHENANIGANS

PUB & RESTAURANT

309 Atlantic Ave. 4th Street on the boardwalk, 410-289-7181 / ocshenanigans.com or @ocSept.shenanigans23-24: Mike Brill, 8:30 p.m.

FlavorfulTHOUGHTsalsa verde sauce

dates back to Aztec Empire

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) Simplicity at its finest is a theme that is straightforward, but is emulsified with subtle intricacies.Because of the minimalism, every minute detail is exposed and therefore perfection is a must.With that thought in mind, let us take a closer look at salsa verde.This flavorful sauce dates back to the Aztec Empire. It was originally a condiment used to flavor meats. As time passed, so did its uses.

Salsa verde is a type of spicy, green sauce in Mexican cuisine that is comprised of tomatillos, green chilis, onions, garlic, cilantro, lime juice and salt.There is no set recipe, one’s taste buds are the deciding factor.

Lime juice or lime zest is not traditional, but the “fruitiness” brightens the dish and enhances the overall flavor.Roasting is not the only method of cooking. If one prefers a more smokey, charred effect, broil or grill theIfvegetables.youareunable to find tomatillos, you can use green tomatoes, though the flavor and texture will not be the same.

The texture of the salsa itself can be made by a food processor or chopped by hand; it all depends on the consistency one wants.

In addition, the thickness of the salsa can be increased by reducing it on the stovetop. This will also enhance the intensity of the dish.

If one wants to extend the shelf life, add a splash of vinegar. You can also freeze it in an airtight container or an ice cube tray for smaller usages.

Salsa verde is notoriously paired with chips but there are many other uses.Grilled proteins topped with salsa verde are a great combination. The charred meat and bright, punchy finisher take the dish to a new level of complexity and taste.

Tortillas and salsa verde go hand in hand. Tacos, burritos, tostadas and quesadillas are a perfect pairing and a combination hard to beat.

Instead of just adding a sprinkling of chopped parsley to rice, hit it with a little salsa verde. The acid and herbal flavor will change the bland carbohydrate.Eggsarea wonderful canvas for foods. Their subtle delicate texture highlights an array of ingredients.

Instead of hot sauce, consider salsa verde. Something so simple can

make a huge difference in taste and presentation.Fanaticsport fans are glued to the TV and the menu must match the level of excitement. Appetizers are a smart move for they appease the hungry crowd while waiting for the main course.Salsa and chips are one of the most popular starters. But does jarred salsa make your festivities memorable? The answer is obviously no.

Entertaining is predicated on uniqueness and the element of surprise.Tortilla chips accompanied with salsa verde and grilled salsa will score points with friends and family. Both dishes are easy to make, packed with flavor, and will wow your guests.

The following recipes can be modified for personal preference. Enjoy!

Salsa Verde

1Ingredients½pounds tomatillos

1 large white onion, quartered

4 large cloves garlic

1 bunch of fresh chopped cilantro juice of 1 ½ limes

2 kosherjalapenossalt to taste

1. Remove the husks of the tomatillos and wash them along with the2.jalapenos.Spreadthe tomatillos, onion, garlic and jalapenos on a parchmentlined baking tray and roast in a preheated oven for 15 minutes at 400 degrees.3.Once roasted, allow the ingredients to cool so you can handle them to remove the stems and seeds of the jalapenos.4.Transfer all the ingredients to a blender or small food processor and blend to your preferred consistency. Then add cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Pulse a few more times until fully incorporated.5.Tasteand adjust seasonings if necessary.

Grilled Salsa

2 ears of corn, silks removed

2 medium zucchini

1 orange bell pepper

1 poblano pepper

1 medium red onion

2 jalapenos

2 tablespoons olive oil

6 Roma tomatoes

2 teaspoons lime zest

2 rounded tablespoons chopped cilantro

2 teaspoons jarred garlic kosher salt to taste

1. Place corn with husks attached in a bowl of cold water for 15 minutes.

SEPTEMBER 23

SEPTEMBER 25

Dining Guide

■ $, $$,

■

■ ANGLER RESTAURANT

312 Talbot St., Ocean City 410-289-7424, $$www.angleroc.net|Reservations | Kids’ menu | Full bar $6 cruise with $15 lunch or dinner food purchase. Serving lunch and dinner. Seafood is our specialty and great landlubber choices. Boat Bar Happy Hour is 3-6 p.m. Lunch, dinner and lite fare daily at 11 a.m. Live entertainment Thursday through Sunday. Dine in or carry out available.

■ ANTHONY’S CARRYOUT

1608 N Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City (corner of 17th and Coastal) 410-213-4803, Sandwich$$anthonyscarryoutoc.comshop,American restaurant serving breakfast and lunch. Subs, cheesesteaks, and fried chicken. Open Sunday through Thursday, 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Friday through Saturday, 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

■ CABANAS BEACH BAR & GRILLE

Located in the Plim Plaza Hotel, 109 N Atlantic Ave., 2nd Street, Ocean City 410524-1776, www.cabanasoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Open to the public. A full-service restaurant serving lunch and dinner inside and out. Signature Smash Burgers. Indoor & outdoor bar. Crushes, frozen drinks, tropical libations. Carry out. Breakfast, sandwiches from 8-11 a.m. and deli subs.

■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE

15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, inside The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City 410-289-7192, www.captainstableoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Breakfas, lunch, Thursday, 8-11 a.m., Friday and Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dinner and light fare, Thursday. 4-9 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. and Sunday, 4-9 p.m. Seafood, steaks, poultry, and daily specials. Happy Hour, 4-6 p.m.

■ CARIBBEAN POOL BAR

Located in the Plim Plaza Hotel, 109 N Atlantic Ave, 2nd Street, Ocean City 410$$289-0837|Kids’ menu | Full bar

Open to the public daily 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. with free entertainment daily 1-5 p.m. and 7-11 p.m. Serving a light fare menu, frozen and tropical cocktails. Online ordering at cabanasoc.com.

■ CARUSO PIZZA & SUBS

Downtown & Boardwalk across from Ripley’s Believe it or Not, Ocean City 410289-1990, oceancitymdpizza.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Beer and orange crushes Pizza, subs, calzones, stromboli’s. Fresh lemonade, orange crushes and beer. Eat in or carry out. Open 7 days a week. Dine in or carry out.

■ COASTAL SALT

16th Street and the Boardwalk, Ocean City 410-973-7258, www.coastalsaltoc.com

$$-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

New American restaurant. Local seafood. Open 7 days a week. Opening 8 a.m. for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT

28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coin$$spuboc.com|Kids’menu

| Full bar

Casual dining for families. Crabcakes, seafood, steaks, specialty dishes and sandwiches. Happy Hour, Sunday through Friday, 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday brunch, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Early bird, daily 2-5:30 p.m. with special dinner menu. Open 7 days a week, Monday through Thursday at 2 p.m. and Friday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m.

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

land atmosphere. Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood.

■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR Oceanfront and 17th St. in Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City Breakfasts$$www.coralreefrestaurant.com410-289-2612,|Kids’menu|Fullbarstartingat7a.m.daily.

■ PURPLE MOOSE SALOON 108 S. Boardwalk between Caroline and Talbot streets

Full Servingbar snacks only. Food is welcome. Bring your own food and buy a beverage of your choice.

■ BAHAMAS’S CRABSHACK CARRYOUT & OceansideOUTLET

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

Lunch

and dinner offering light fare of soups and salads along with house specialty — Scallops St. Croix, along with ribs, Cuban pork and steak selections.

■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND

Caroline St, Wicomico St. & South Division St. on the boardwalk, Ocean City Icewww.dumsersdairyland.comcreammadedaily.Stopby any Dumser’s location for homemade ice cream, milkshakes, sundaes, floats and much more.

■ FISHTALES BAR & GRILL

21st Street and the Bay, Ocean City 410289-0990, www.ocfishtales.com

$-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Fishtales located in a premier outdoor beach location on the bay. Lunch and dinner, happy hour food and drink specials. Kids play area too.

■ HARBOR WATCH

806 S. Atlantic Ave., Inlet Ocean City 410289-5121, www.harborwatchrestaurant.com

$$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ menu | Full Freshbar seafood, award-winning raw bar, certified angus beef. View of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Call for banquet information. Hours are Monday, 4-9 p.m.; Tuesday and Wednesday, closed; Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Happy Hour: Monday, Thursday and Sunday nights, 4-9 p.m.

■ HAMMERHEADS RAW BAR & GRILL 913 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City 410-2890006, www.hammerheadsocmd.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Food, drinks and views on the ocean front deck. Seafood steam pots, burgers, creative cocktails. Open daily, 11 a.m. Dine in or carry out available.

■ OCEAN BITES

401 S. Atlantic Ave next to Thrasher FF and 30th Street Coastal Hwy in the Jolly Roger’s parking lot, Ocean City OceanKid’sbites.netmenu. Two locations. Ice cream, lemonades, pizza, salads, appetizers, sandwiches, wraps, wings, tenders, burger, baskets. Open daily.

■ PAPI’S TACO JOINT

15th Street @ Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City 443-664-861, PapisTacoJoint.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Try the new Authentic Mexican restaurant open 7 days a week. Weekdays, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and weekends, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. With a family atmosphere you can enjoy build your own street taco’s with a sheet table side with their home-made authentic salsas. Serving foods such as little cravings, Papi’s trio guacamole, Queso Fundido and choice of salsas, salads, bowls, soups, main dishes and desserts. Also, brunch, gluten free and vegan menus. Happy Hour: Monday through Friday, 3-5 p.m. with beer, wines, cocktails and specialty signature drinks. Dine in or order online for your carryout.

■ PICKLES PUB 706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City 410289-4891, www.picklesoc.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

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

■ PIZZA MAMBO

710 Philadelphia Ave., between 7th and 8th streets 410-289-1200; 7205 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City 410-524-0090, ocpizzaServing$$mambo.com|Kids’menupizzaswith homemade crust,

■ 309SHENANIGANSAtlanticAve., 4th Street on the boardwalk, Ocean City 410-289-7181

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Full bar, kid’s menu. Irish-themed restaurant and bar serving American and Irish grub on the oceanfront patio. Munchies, soups, salads, steaks, seafood, burgers, sandwiches, tacos and entrées. Special beers, wine, and cocktails. Dine in or curbside pickup. No deliveries. Open Monday through Friday, 11:30 a.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. Order online at ocshenanigans.com or @ocshenanigans.

■ 32 LocatedPALMinThe Hilton,32nd Street, Ocean City 410-289-2525, www.32palm.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Open Sunday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bar and lounge. Western Caribbean cuisine, traditional Eastern Shore fare.

■ COCONUT’S BEACH BAR & GRILL Castle in the Sand Hotel, 37th Street and the beach, Ocean City ting.day,drinkment.frozenwiches,Beachfront$-$$www.castleinthesand.com410-289-6846,|Kids’menu|Fullbaropen-airdining.Grilledsand-salads,appetizers,wraps,tacos,drinks,beerandwine.Liveentertain-HappyHourdaily,5-6p.m.2for1specials.OpenThursdaythroughSun-11a.m.to11p.m.,weatherpermit-

■ MARLIN MOON

Located in the Double Tree Hotel, 3301 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City desserts,RestaurantFriday-Sunday-Thursday,$$www.marlinmoonocmd.com410-289-1201,7:30a.m.to9p.m.andSaturday,7:30a.m.to10p.m.andbar.Seafood,smallplates,cocktails.

■ OCEAN 13 SEAFOOD & STEAKHOUSE 106 32nd Street located into the La Quinta Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-2896213, Seafood,$$-$$$www.ocean13ocmd.com|Fullbarsteaks,drinks.Meals made from

scratch. “Beach” atmosphere. Family dining. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Full bar. Open Monday-Friday, 3 p.m. to midnight; and Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m. to midnight. Happy Hour, 3-6 p.m. $20. Early bird menu daily 3-5 p.m. featuring steak, chicken and seafood dishes.

■ PGN CRAB HOUSE 29th Street, Ocean City 410-289-8380, 410-289-4083, www.pgncrabhouse.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Beer & Wine Steamed crabs. Dine in or carry out. Casual seasonal seafood stop for all-you-can-eat specials. Steamed crabs, chicken and corn on the cob. Clams, ribs, crab cakes, seafood platters. Call for daily specials. Open 7 day a week, 11 a.m.

■ RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT 61st Street Bayside/2nd Floor @ Bayview Bar & Grill, Ocean City 443- 664-7043

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Bayfront, casual atmosphere. Burgers, flat breads, crab cakes, shrimp burgers and full dinners. Happy Hour daily, 4-7 p.m. Open Monday-Thursday, 4-10 p.m.; Friday, 4-11 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

■ 49thSEACRETSStreet,Ocean City 410-524-4900,

$$www.seacrets.com|Kids’menu|Full bar

Open Monday-Wednesday, 4 p.m. and Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m. with is-

Seafood, crabs selected by weight, sandwiches and dinners. Seafood, chicken, homemade soups, crab cakes, steamed shrimp, clams, soft crabs, scallops, oysters and snow crab claws.

■ HORIZONS OCEANFRONT RESTAURANT, BREAKERS PUB & LENNY’S BEACH BAR &

InsideGRILL

the Ocean City Fontainebleau Resort, 101st Street, Ocean City 410-5243535, ocbeachresort.com

$-$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Oceanfront restaurants, Horizons and Breakers Pub. Horizons: Open 7 a.m to 11 a.m. and 5-10 p.m. Lennys & Breakers Pub: Weekdays, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Weekends, 11 a.m. to midnight. Happy hour at the bar 4-7 p.m. Breakfast, lunch and dinner, including light fare and steamer specials.

■ NORI SUSHI BAR & GRILL

Inside the Gold Coast Mall, 11403 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City 443-880-6258

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Serving daily small plates, soups, salads, sandwiches, fried rice, entrees and desserts. Also, Nori’s premium rolls, nigiri and sashimi, hand-roll combos. Full bar with wine, beer and cocktails. Inside dining and take out, 7 days a week, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Delivery via Door Dash Online.

■ PRINCESS ROYALE OCEANFRONT RE9100SORT Coastal Hwy, Ocean City 443-8562367, www.princessroyale.com

$-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Ocean front, open to the public. The Current Bar & Grille open for lunch and dinner daily, noon to 10 p.m. (In-season) Schooners Oceanfront Restaurant, breakfast buffet from 7-11 a.m. 7 days a week in season.

Lunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. indoor and outdoor seating available. Open Daily at 7 a.m. Tropical Tiki “Atrium Bar” for pool-side drinks, foods and frozen drinks. Checkwebsite for hours.

■ SOPHIA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Inside the Gold Coast Mall, 11405 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City 410-723-5188

$$ | Kids’ menu

Open 7 days a week, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Appetizers, salads, subs, soup of the day. Specialty pizzas, calzones and low-carb alternatives, Italian entrées. A la carte fresh vegetables, homemade desserts. Call for take-out or delivery.

■ COASTAL SMOKEHOUSE

12513 Ocean Gateway, West Ocean City 410-390-5998, coastalsmokehouse.com

$$-$$$ | Full bar with 18 TVs

Steak and barbecue experts. Menu reflects nation's hottest barbecue destinations. Topnotch bourbon list. Open daily for lunch and dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

■ OC CHOPSTICKS Asian Bistro 12741 Ocean Gateway, Suite 890, West Ocean City (Outlets Ocean City) 410-8011111, www.occhopsticks.com

$$ | Beer | Premium Sake

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

■ OC 12849EATERIESOceanGateway (Rt. 50), West Ocean City 443-252-3700, oceateriesmary$-$$land.com|Kids’ menu | Full bar

Market-style food destination with table service. Seven restaurants offering brick oven pizza, wings, street tacos, cheesy mac, loaded potatoes. Happy Hour 3-6 p.m. with food and drink specials. Live entertainment, Thursday through Saturday evenings. Indoor and outdoor seating.

Pine’eer Craft Club features Davis’ creations this month

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Pine’eer Craft Club of Ocean Pines has chosen Kelly Davis as the September Crafter of the Month.Kelly and her husband, Greg, are new to the Pines. They recently purchased their home on Manklin Creek this spring, and they love living in the community.Theylive in South Jersey, but they hope to relocate here full time, eventually.Davis is a paper crafter. She makes handmade photo albums, journals, cards, frames, canvases, banners, figures and more.

She started scrapbooking when her son was about 5 years old (and she had a shoebox filled with memories) and it grew into an – almost –obsession. It led her to classes and a convention with nationally known instructors.Sheeven opened a scrapbook supply shop about a decade ago.

While her career, family, and other life changes interrupted her hobby from time to time, she always comes back to her love for scrapbooking, returning with new techniques and products.Shedoes accept custom requests and has additional papercrafts for

sale in her Etsy shop, craftyscrapsbykel.com.ViewDavis’ crafts at the Artisan Gift Shop located in White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway in Ocean Pines. The shop is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

PresentTHOUGHTtortilla chips with salsa verde and grilled salsa

Remove corn, place on a draining tray or cooling rack, and allow excess water to drain.

2. Heat coals or gas grill for direct heat. Place the corn, zucchini, bell pepper, poblano, onion and jalapenos on grill. Cook until a nice sear is obtained. Remove vegetables from the grill and allow to cool.

3. Remove seeds and stems from

CROSSWORD

the bell pepper, tomatoes and jalapeno.4.Finely chop the vegetables and place in a large bowl. Add the remaining ingredients and mix thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Secret Ingredient – Simplicity. “Simplicity does not precede complexity, but it follows it.”

– Alan Perlis

The Pine’eer Craft Club of Ocean Pines has chosen Kelly Davis as the September Crafter of the Month.

Beach to Bay Heritage Area awarded grant for $30,000

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Rural Maryland Council has awarded a grant for marketing for the Beach to Bay Heritage

TheArea.grant was approved for $30,000 through its Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund.

The Rural Maryland Council serves as the state’s federally designated rural development council and functions as a voice for Rural Maryland – advocating, educating, and helping rural communities and businesses across the state to flourish and to gain equity to its suburban and urbanMAERDAFcounterparts.funds provide support to rural regional planning and economic development organizations and rural community development programs whose missions and work have statewide implications and merit state support.

The Beach to Bay Heritage Area will begin to market the region using

previously awarded projects such as virtual museum tours and African American tourism.

“Our efforts, over the past several years, to elevate our presence through working with our museums and through the development of new African American tourism products has been rewarding. But now, to have the money to market all of these things is really equally as important,” said BBHA Board President Kristen Goller. “It will be a way for us to allow a much wider audience to be aware of what we’ve got to offer and why they need to come for a visit.”TheRural Maryland Council received 215 applications requesting over $19 million this year. The selection process was extremely competitive, and the BBHA is pleased to be one the organizations chosen.

To find out more about the Beach to Bay Heritage Area, visit BeachesBaysWaterways.org.

Annual Sand Castle Home Tour Sept. 29-30

(Sept. 23, 2022) First Lady of Maryland Yumi Hogan has been named the chairperson for the 18th annual Sand Castle Home Tour, the largest fundraiser of the year for the nonprofit Art League of Ocean City.

“For the last 18 years, the Art League of Ocean City has strived to create communal places for its residents to pursue the arts, and I am honored to serve as the chairperson for this year’s Sand Castle Home Tour,” First Lady Hogan said. “The tour is a wonderful opportunity for community members and visitors to tour Ocean City in a very unique way and support the Ocean City Center for the Arts. I want to thank the 10 families who volunteered to open their homes in support of an outstanding cause.”

The tour, now in its 18th year, raised the seed money to construct the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th Street, and now supports keeping the nonprofit Arts Center free and open for all year-round.

The home tour returns in-person Sept. 29-30, opening the doors of seven private residences in the Ocean City area.

A companion virtual tour of the seven homes plus three additional online-only homes will be available from Sept. 29 through Oct. 31, on the tour’s website. The tour includes a variety of homes from oceanfront to bayside to family residences and condos.Volunteer

docents staff each home, guide visitors through the rooms and outdoor spaces, and answer questions about the house and its unique features.

Those taking the tour will be inspired with unique decorating ideas,

color schemes, and different styles of living. Local businesses — architects, builders, home decorators, artists, florists, remodelers, landscapers — have the opportunity to show off their talents and showcase their products to the 1,000-plus tour takers.

The self-guided in-person tour is held over two days on Thursday and Friday, Sept. 29-30, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. so guests can tour at their ownThepace.seven in-person homes are located in Ocean City, West Ocean City, Ocean Pines, and Berlin. Combo tick-

ets for both the in-person and virtual tours are $50 per person. Tickets to the virtual-only tour are $35. Both are available at SandCastleHomeTour.com.TheOcean City Center for the Arts at 502 94th Street is the home of the Art League of Ocean City, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing the visual arts to the community through education, exhibits, scholarship, programs and community art projects. More information is available at 410-524-9433 or artleagueofoceancity.org.

First Lady of Maryland Yumi Hogan is the chairperson for the 18th annual Sand Castle Home Tour, the largest fundraiser of the year for the nonprofit Art League of Ocean City, held in-person, Sept. 29-30. She is standing in front of a portrait created by Jinchul Kim.

Cookie decorating demo at OP farmers market Saturday

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market will present a cookie decorating demonstration with Kim Timmons on Saturday at 9Timmons,a.m. the owner of Flamingo Road Designs & Gifts, said she’s enjoyed cooking and baking since she was a child.

“I had dreams of going to a culinary institute, but then life happened,” she said. “As my kids were growing up, I was always the mom who volunteered to bring in the crazy snacks for every occasion. My favorite memories are my annual Christmas cookie baking and cake decorating with one of my dear friends, and we always talked about opening a bakery.”Recently, that dream was realized.

“My love for creating and baking has become an amazing business,” she said. “I work out of my home on our small family farm in Berlin as a Cottage Kitchen Baker.

“Over the last two years, I’ve taught myself the dos and don’ts of baking and decorating cookies through a lot of trial and error,” Timmons continued. “Now, I want to share the basics and techniques that look impressive but can be easy to master. My goal is to inspire you to

jump in and choose to have more fun and joy in life — through cookies!”

The Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market is open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in White Horse Park.

River Rally this Sunday in Berlin for World Rivers Day

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Lower Shore Land Trust announces that the River Rally will take place this Sunday from 9 a.m. until noon at Ayers Creek Adventures, 8628 Grey Fox Lane, in Berlin.The event is a celebration of World Rivers Day. Millions of people in more than 100 countries celebrate World Rivers Day on the fourth Sunday in September.

At 9 a.m. meet for coffee and pastries then explore Ayers Creek by kayak or on a paddle board. The $20 registration fee includes launch if guests bring their own boat, or receive a discount rates for rentals

available on the registration site.

At 11 a.m., Chrissy Ehrhart of Zenna Wellness Studio will be leading a yoga practice. Bring a mat or towel.All paddlers participating in River Rally during World Rivers Day are welcome. At-will donations will be accepted.Participants are welcome to paddle past 11 a.m. for an additional boat rentalRegisterfee. at landtrust.orgtion,6-river-rally-2022.trust.networkforgood.com/events/4743https://lower-shore-land-Formoreinforma-contactinfo@lowershore-or443-234-5587.

The Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market will present a cookie decorating demonstration with Kim Timmons on Sept. 24 at 9 a.m.

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. 23

REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR 10TH ANNUAL TEE OFF FOR YOUTH GOLF TOURNAMENT

Takes place Sept. 30 at the Ocean City Golf Club. Cost is $80. Registration forms are available at the WCRP website or pick up at the Worcester County Recreation Center in Snow Hill. 410-6322144, Ext. 2505.

BANNED BOOKS WEEK BUTTON MAKING

Stop in to celebrate banned books week and make your own banned books button, Sept. 19-24. For ages 10 years and older Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-6322600.

OC ADVENTURE FEST

Featuring Blackout Veterans Tribute, Showmasters Gun Show and Auction, Mid-Atlantic Sports & Outdoor Show and Kashmir the Live Led Zepplin Show (7 p.m.). Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10:00 am. turefest.comhttps://www.ocadven-

MID-MORNING CRAFT ‘FUN WITH FINGER PAINT’

Create your own artwork using finger paint and other simple craft materials. For ages 2-5 years. Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 am. www.worcesterlibrary.org410-632-2600,

HOBBIES CLUB ‘TABLE TOP GAMES’

Building and exploring new ideas this Legos, magnet tiles and Kinects. Bring your own or share those supplied by the library. For and 6 years and older.

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:00 pm. 410-632-2600, www.worcesterlibrary.org

WET PAINT SALE AND EXHIBIT

As part of the Paint Worcester CountyPlein Air event. Purchase an original piece of art, fresh off the easel and meet the artist who painted it Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Avenue, 1:30 pm to 5:00 pm. 410curator@worcestercountyartscouncil.org641-0809,

REPUBLICAN WOMEN OF WORCESTER COUNTY MOBILE HEADQUARTERS

The mobile headquarters will be on hand during the 4th Friday Street Festival. In-

formation on Republican candidates and campaign signs and materials will be available. Downtown Pocomoke, Market St & Front St , Pocomoke City, 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

4TH FRIDAY STREET FESTIVAL

“SeptemBEER” will feature artists, vendors, entertainment by DJ Kay and kids’ activities. Food and drink specials available at local restaurants. Weather permitting. Downtown Pocomoke, Market St & Front St , Pocomoke City, 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. 410-957-1333, Ext. www.downtownpocomoke.com111,

30TH ANNUAL FIDDERS CONVENTION

Kicking off the festivities with The String Buzzards opening for Tim Finch and The Eastman String Band on Main Street. Competition pm.Mainvention/.https://berlinchamber.org/fiddlers-con-pre-registration:DowntownBerlin,2SouthStreet,Berlin,7:00pmto10:00

Sat., Sept. 24

INDOOR YARD SALE

Call the church office at 410-723-1973 for more information. Church of the Holy Spirit Episcopal, 10001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 7:00 am to 12:00 pm.

FREE COMMUNITY FLU CLINIC

Open to those 13 years and older. No appointment is required. James G. Barrett Medical Office Building Parking Lot, 10231 Old Ocean City Boulevard, Berlin, 8:00 am to 12:00 pm. Atlantic General Hospital, 410-641-9FLU (9358), www.agh.care/flu

SPECIAL COOKIE DECORATING DEMONSTRATION

Featuring Kim Timmons, owner of Flamingo Road Designs & Gifts. Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market, 235 Ocean Parkway, 9:00 am. marketpines.org/web/pages/farmers-artisans-www.ocean-

HOMEBUYER EDUCATION CLASS

Free homebuyer education classes are offered quarterly and eHome America online courses are offered for $100. Coupons are available to offset the cost of the online course. Register: 410-5434626. Salisbury Fire Department, 325 Cypress Street, Salisbury, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Gun Show and Auction, Mid-Atlantic Sports & Outdoor Show, Biker Games & Rodeo, K-9 Exhibit and Priscella Block Concert (7:30 p.m.) Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 9:00 am to 10:30 pm. www.ocadventurefest.com

STORY TIME AT THE FARMERS MARKET Held during the Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market. “Mr. Jake,” a youth services specialist with the Ocean Pines Library, will read books to local children. All are welcome. White Horse Park, Ocean Pines , Ocean Pines, 9:00 am. www.oceanpines.org

30TH ANNUAL FIDDERS CONVENTION

Featuring vendors, artists and delicious treats from far and wide while the competition rages on Main Street. After the competition, the High and Wides will take the stage. Downtown Berlin, 2 South Main Street, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. http://BerlinChamber.org

BANNED BOOKS WEEK BUTTON MAKING Stop in to celebrate banned books week and make your own banned books button, Sept. 19-24. For ages 10 years and older Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. www.worcesterlibrary.org410-632-2600,

FURNACE TOWN RENAISSANCE FAIRE

A fun filled weekend back in time! Food, drink, vendors, artisans, entertainment, and the best reenactors around! Furnace Town Historic Site (Nassawango Iron Furnace), 3816 Old Furnace Road, Snow Hill, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. 410-6322032

ASSATEAGUE ADVENTURES

A ranger-led adventure featuring crafts, puppets, stories, cool props and live animals from Assateague Island National Seashore. A different adventure each week. For all ages. Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Avenue, 10:30 am. www.worcesterlibrary.org410-632-2600,

ALPACA FARM OPEN HOUSE

Learn about alpacas and enjoy farm activities for all ages. See the process of animal to wearable products, shop in the “Breezy Barn” farm store, hayrides and other activities. Ocean Breeze Alpacas, 10304 Caleb Road, Berlin, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. Nancy, 410-251-0931

GRIEFSHARE

A 14-week support program for those who are struggling after the loss of a loved one. Sponsored by Fathom Church in Berlin. Register: Carole, 301-5092002. Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm.

NATIVE RHYTHMS ON THE POCOMOKE Delmarva Discovery Museum, 2 Market

Street, Pocomoke City, 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm.

BASIC GEOCACHING CLASS

Learn what geocaches are, their history and how to get starting finding them. Cost is $35 for a family of four or $20 per person. Worcester County Recreation Center, 6030 Public Landing Road, Snow Hill, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Trudy Gebhardt, 410-632-2144, Ext. 2514, tgebhardt@marylandscoast.org

CRAFTY SATURDAY FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Adults can come alone or bring the whole family. Make and decorate a birdhouse. Registration required: www.worcesterlibrary.org. Worcester County LibraryOcean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. 410-632-2600

BOOK SIGNING WITH AL “HONDO” HANDY Al “Hondo” Handy book launch and signing for “Defying Expectations - Family, Sports & Recreation.” The book is about an inspiring young black man who defied the odds. Residence Inn by Marriott Ocean City, 300 Seabay Lane, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

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

FREE PLATFORM TENNIS LESSONS

Saturdays - Ocean Pines Racquet Center, 11443 Manklin Creek Road, 9:30 a.m. All abilities welcome and equipment will be provided. oppaddle2020@gmail.com or 516-508-0313.

FREE KIDS CRAFTS AT THE ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY

Saturdays through Sept. 3 - Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th Street, 11 a.m. Each week provides a different project to complete. www.artleagueofoceancity.org

Sun., Sept. 25

RIVER RALLY TO CELEBRATE WORLD RIVERS DAY

Explore Ayers Creek by kayak or paddle board. Registration fee is $20. Launch your own boat or enjoy discounted rentals. Participants are welcome to yoga with Chrissy Ehrnart at 11 a.m. Ayers Creek Adventures, 8628 Grey Fox Lane, Berlin, 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. 443-2345587

30TH ANNUAL FIDDERS CONVENTION

Enjoy the Gospel side of Bluegrass with Stevenson Crossroads. Calvin B. Taylor House, 208 North Main Street, Berlin, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. http://BerlinChamber.org

CALENDAR

Featuring Blackout Veterans Tribute, Showmasters Gun Show and Mid-Atlantic Sports & Outdoor Show. Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. www.ocadventurefest.com

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

FREE TOURS AT THE ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY

Sundays through Sept. 3 - Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th Street, 1 p.m. Learn about exhibiting artists as well as the programs and activities at the Art League. www.artleagueofoceancity.org

BERLIN FARMERS MARKET

Sundays - Main St., Pitt St., Commerce St., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Live music. TheBerlinFarmersMarket.com

Mon., Sept. 26

REGISTRAION DEADLINE FOR THE 2ND ANNUAL OKTOBERFEST PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT

The tournament takes place Oct. 14-16 in Ocean Pines. Registration costs $40. 5587.pickleballsara@gmail.com,tournament/8976956.https://app.pickleballden.com/external-Register:Formoreinfo:443-234-

WRITING FOR WELLNESS

Writing about stressful experiences like illness, may boost health and psychological well-being. Group uses exercises to stimulate creative expression. Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 pm. 410-6322600, www.worcesterlibrary.org

MAKER MONDAY: PUMPKINS

Make easy, hand-sewn pumpkins to brighten any holiday table. Supplies provided. Register: sonCountywww.worcesterlibrary.org.410-641-0650,WorcesterLibrary-BerlinBranch,13Harri-Avenue,2:00pm.410-632-2600

SUPER POWERED STEM ‘ROLL & RACE’

Explore how fast the objects roll using different building techniques and surfaces. For ages 6 years and older.

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 3:30 pm. 410-632-2600, www.worcesterlibrary.org

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY OF BERLINGROUP #169

T.O.P.S. is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle Atlantic General Hospital - Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm. Rose Campion, 410-641-0157

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Mary,

410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-242-7062.

Tues., Sept. 27

STORY TIME ‘MUSIC AND MOVEMENT’

Songs and finger-plays. A take-home activity included. For ages 2-5 years. Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Avenue, 10:30 am. 410-632-2600, www.worcesterlibrary.org

STORY TIME ‘THE FIVE SENSES’

Stories, songs and fun. For ages 2-5 years. Worcester County LibraryPocomoke Branch, 301 Market Street, 10:30 am. 410-632-2600, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OC KNITTING GROUP

Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. Worcester County LibraryOcean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 am. www.worcesterlibrary.org410-632-2600,

‘THE UNIMAGINABLE JOURNEY OF PETER ERTEL’

Also held via Zoom. This film is about a German amateur violinist becoming a soldier in Hitler’s army and eventually a U.S. Government agent. Registration required: Worcesterwww.worcesterlibrary.org.CountyLibrary-Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2:00 pm. 410-632-2600

FEEL-GOOD MOVIE

Monthly movies that prove the human spirit can prevail despite overwhelming odds. Call for movie details at 410-2084014. Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:00 pm. 410-632-2600, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BEACH HEROES-OC

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

DELMARVA DANCING

Tuesdays - Selbyville Elks Lodge 2173, 13324 Worcester Highway, Bishopville, 5:30-9 p.m. Dance to the sounds of the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s and more. A $5 donation benefits Veterans and local charities. All are welcome. Charlie, 410-465-0445

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410-2894725

OC KNITTING CLUB

Tuesdays - Worcester County LibraryOcean City Branch, 10003 Coastal High-

way, 10:30 a.m.

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

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

Wed., Sept. 28

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

Meets the first and second Wednesday of each month for surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatrics Center, 410-641-9568

STORY TIME ‘CONSTRUCTION’ Stories, rhymes and crafts all about building, digging and constructing. For ages 2-5 years. Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 am. www.worcesterlibrary.org410-632-2600,

FIRST STATE DETACHMENT OF THE MARINE CORPS LEAGUE MEETING

Any Marines and Navy Corpsman who have served in our Corps, living in Worcester and Sussex counties, are welcome to join the meeting. American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City, 12:00 pm. 410-430-7181, websergeant@firststatemarines.org

PAGE TO SCREEN BOOK CLUB: ‘HOLES’ BY LOUIS SACHAR Meeting via Zoom, 1:00 pm. New book club. Find out if you prefer the book or the movie. Books are available at the library and on Libby. For ages 9-12 years. Registration required: www.worcesterlibrary.org.

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

The goal of the support group is to provide participants with hope for the future. Atlantic General Hospital - Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Gail Mansell, 410641-9725, gmansell @atlanticgeneral.org

FREE SQUARE DANCE LESSONS

Pine Steppers Square Dance Club offers 4 free square dance lessons on Wednesdays, Sept. 14 through Oct. 5. Beginners welcomed. Learn America’s official dance. Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 7:00 pm to 8:45 pm. 908-229-8799

Thurs., Sept. 29

18TH ANNUAL SAND CASTLE HOME TOUR Tour features 10 of the greater Ocean City area’s most captivating residences. Five or more will offer in-person tours. All homes available virtually through October. Ocean City Area, 9:30 am to 4:00 pm. 410-524-9433, https://sandcastlehometour.com

RIGAMAJIG THURSDAYS

Drop in to use your imagination and build using the rigamajig STEM building kit. For ages 4 years and older. Worcester

County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. 410-632-2600, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PLAY TIME

A variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 2-5 years. Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 North Washington Street, 10:30 am. www.worcesterlibrary.org410-632-2600,

PINE TONES CHORUS: HAVE FUN SINGING

Inviting new singers, both ladies and gentlemen. Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 1:00 pm. 610-213-7472

SURVIVAL SPANISH: STUDENT EDITION ‘ANIMALS’

Join Miss Morgan for this introductory Spanish program. For ages 7-12 years. Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:00 pm. www.worcesterlibrary.org410-632-2600,

ROCK LEGENDS SERIES: THE ROLLING STONES

Martin Scorsese documented a series of the Ruling Stones’ 2006 concerts at Manhattan’s Beacon Theater. Special guests Buddy Guy, Christina Aguilera and Jack White. Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:00 pm. 410-632-2600, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FIRESIDE CHAT

A book discussion featuring books participants have read and want to share. Come and find your next great read and future favorites. Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Avenue, 3:00 pm. www.worcesterlibrary.org410-632-2600,

READER’S THEATRE

Join the group as they read short scripts and improvise the acting. For ages 13 years and older. Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 North Washington Street, 3:30 pm. 410-6322600, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ZUMBA FOR ALL LEVELS

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

BENEATH THE SHEETS: A DUSTIN PARI PRESENTATION

Held via Zoom, 7:00 pm. Dustin pulls back the curtain, or sheets, to explain why some strange encounters can be rationally explained. Registration required: www.worcesterlibrary.org. 410-632-2600

BEACH SINGLES-55 PLUS

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

BOAT YARD HELP WANTED FOR POWERWASHING AND SHRINK-WRAPPING BOATS.

CALL HARBOR MARINE @

RECEPTIONIST

Accounting firm seeking front desk receptionist. Full-time, year-round position. Some Feb.-April.Saturdays

Please email your resume cpa@cgcpa.proto

Cooks, Kitchen Help, Food BartenderCleaningRunners,Person,Wanted

Flexible schedule, clean kitchen, new equipment. Weekly paychecks. Friendly work environment. American Legion Post #166

Contact Sam 443-235-0876Wiley

GREAT-GREAT-GREATTECHNICIANSAUTOMOTIVEOPPORTUNITIES!!!!

Full Service automotive center, now has openings

Call Matt – 302-344-9846 View & Ocean Pines

2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Each are1600approximatelysq.ft.

Call

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT:

Looking for space, comfort, and great views?

BOOKKEEPER

Accounting firm in Ocean City, MD seeking full-time Bookkeeper. Position will be responsible for maintaining multiple client accounts on a monthly basis. Previous accounting experience preferred but not required. We are willing to train the right candidate.

Apply in person or online at seacrets.com seacrets.com @ 410-524-2221

Please email your resume cpa@cgcpa.proto

References will be requested.

UTRON Kinetics Groundskeeper/Maintenance for several properties. Full time with good benefits, vacation, health care, sick leave, 401(k) matching.$15/hr.

Contact Dennis utronkinetics.com703-508-9154Masseyordennism@

References will be requested.

2nd Floor Apartment for YEARLY RENT 1BR, 1BA, West OC. No $1000/mo.smoking/pets.+electric. 410-213-1633

HOUSE FOR YEARLY RENT

4BR, 3.5BA w/garage, West OC. No smoking. $2750/mo. + electric. 410-213-1633

ROOMMATE

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

1BR. 94th St. Bayside. Seeking Male, nonsmoker. Must love dogs. $200/week plus utilities. Text, difficult410-726-5200,toanswercalls.REALESTATE

September Ocean City Efficiency Timeshare right off the Boardwalk. Fully Furnished, Includes linen and dishes with one parking space. Enjoy the Autumn Boardwalk activities without moving your auto. Unit can be traded on RCI and Capital Vacations. $600. 410-294-1714

FOR SALE

Spacious, climatecontrolled corner office, with views of the Bay and Route 90 Bridge available, with use of conference room and reception area, in a modern, wellmaintained building, in prime Ocean City location.

Call (410) 524-3440 for appointment.

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

MARYLAND STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED

DOG, PETS, LIVESTOCK, PET SUPPLIES

Use Happy Jack® Kennel Dip as an area spray to control Lyme disease ticks, fleas, stable flies, & mosquitoes where they breed. At Tractor (www.fleabeacon.com)Supply

MISC. FOR SALE

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

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

WANTED TO BUY TOP CA$H PAID FOR OLD GUITARS! 1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D'Angelico, Stromberg. And Gibson Mandolins / Banjos. PAYING888-491-4534TOP

CA$H FOR MEN'S SPORT WATCHES! Rolex, Breitling, Omega, Patek Philippe, Heuer, Daytona, GMT, Submariner and Speedmaster. Call 844-5063622.

HOMESERVICESIMPROVEMENT

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SERVICES

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details!

www.dental50plus.com/1-855-337-5228MDDC#6258

Advertise in

Classifieds 410-723-6397

2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Kirk Cecil Stewart who died on August 2, 2022, without a Furtherwill.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,Any2023.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.

Julia Ann Stewart Personal SnowRoomOneRegisterTrueRepresentativeTestCopyTerriWestcottofWillsforWorcesterCountyW.MarketStreet102-CourtHouseHill,MD21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: August 08, 2022 OCD-9/8/3t

ter County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, 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 foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred.David C. Berlinger TraciLisaGittlemanKoenick

Foreign Personal RegisterRepresentativesTerriWestcottofWills

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

Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest

Date of first publication: September 08, 2022

NOTICEOCD-9/8/3t

of Passage of Bill 22-11 Worcester County Commissioners

Take Notice that Bill 22-11 was passed by Commissioners Mitrecic, Elder, Bertino, Bunting, Church, Nordstrom and Purnell on September 6, 2022. Bill 22-11 is titled AN ACT TO AUTHORIZE AND EMPOWER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND TO BORROW ON ITS FULL FAITH AND CREDIT, AND TO ISSUE AND SELL (1) ITS GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS AND ITS BOND ANTICIPATION NOTES THEREFOR, AT ONE TIME OR FROM TIME TO TIME WITHIN FOUR YEARS FROM THE DATE THIS BILL BECOMES EFFECTIVE, EACH IN AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT EXCEEDING $10,955,670, TO PROVIDE FINANCING FOR A PORTION OF THE COST OF ENGINEERING, DESIGNING, CONSTRUCTING AND EQUIPPING OF PHASE 2 IMPROVEMENTS TO THE WORCESTER COUNTY JAIL, INCLUDING PAYMENT OF RELATED COSTS AND COSTS OF ISSUANCE, AND (2) ITS GENERAL OBLIGATION REFUNDING BONDS, AT ONE TIME OR FROM TIME TO TIME, IN AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT EXCEEDING $14,245,000, TO PROVIDE FINANCING FOR THE COST OF REFUNDING IN WHOLE OR IN PART ANY OF THE BONDS ISSUED PURSUANT TO THIS LOCAL LAW, INCLUDING PAYMENT OF RELATED COSTS AND COSTS OF ISSUANCE; PROVIDING THAT PROCEEDS OF SUCH BONDS OR BOND ANTICIPATION NOTES MAY BE APPLIED TO OTHER COSTS OF SUCH PROJECT AS DESCRIBED HEREIN; AND RECOGNIZING THAT BILL 22-6 MAY NOT HAVE

BECOME EFFECTIVE.

Bill No. 22-11 (1) sets forth certain rules of construction; (2) provides for the authorized borrowings described in the title above; (3) provides that the bill may be amended to authorize the use of proceeds for other public purposes; (4) provides that details of any of the authorized general obligation bonds, bond anticipation notes or refunding bonds will be determined or provided for by the County Commissioners by resolution; (5) pledges the County’s full faith and credit and unlimited taxing power to payment of any such issued general obligation debt and provides for the levy of annual property taxes sufficient to pay debt service on any such issued general obligation debt; (6) allows other available funds to be used to pay debt service on any such issued general obligation debt; (7) generally relates to the authorized general obligation debt; and (8) provides that no general obligation debt will be issued under authority of Bill 22-6.

The bill becomes effective fortyfive (45) days from the date of its passage unless petitioned to referendum.The foregoing 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 and is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center. A full copy of the bill is also available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER

$3,965,000, TO PROVIDE FINANCING FOR THE COST OF REFUNDING IN WHOLE OR IN PART ANY OF THE BONDS ISSUED PURSUANT TO THIS LOCAL LAW, INCLUDING PAYMENT OF RELATED COSTS AND COSTS OF ISSUANCE; PROVIDING THAT PROCEEDS OF SUCH BONDS OR BOND ANTICIPATION NOTES MAY BE APPLIED TO OTHER COSTS OF SUCH PROJECT AS DESCRIBED HEREIN; AND RECOGNIZING THAT BILL 22-7 MAY NOT HAVE BECOME EFFECTIVE.Bill

No. 22-12 (1) sets forth certain rules of construction; (2) provides for the authorized borrowings described in the title above; (3) provides that the bill may be amended to authorize the use of proceeds for other public purposes; (4) provides that details of any of the authorized general obligation bonds, bond anticipation notes or refunding bonds will be determined or provided for by the County Commissioners by resolution; (5) pledges the County’s full faith and credit and unlimited taxing power to payment of any such issued general obligation debt and provides for the levy of annual property taxes sufficient to pay debt service on any such issued general obligation debt; (6) allows other available funds to be used to pay debt service on any such issued general obligation debt; (7) generally relates to the authorized general obligation debt; and (8) provides that no general obligation debt will be issued under authority of Bill 22-7.

The bill becomes effective fortyfive (45) days from the date of its passage unless petitioned to referendum.The

foregoing 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 and is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center. A full copy of the bill is also available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

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

These three weeks of notification began on Sept 8, 2022

Line No Year Make Model Color Style

VIN Mileage

PURPLE CONV 1FAFP45X61F180673 NA 0478-22 2018 CHEVY CAMERO RED 2D 1G1FD1RSXJ0115790 NA 0485-22 1992 BMW RED 4S WBACB4314NFF94597 NA 0499-22 2008 PONTIAC G6 SILVER 4S 1G2ZG57B684191150 NA 0552-22 2004 FORD FOCUS TAN 4D 1FAFP34Z44W127195 NA 0572-22 2004 HYUNDAI SONATA WHITE SEDAN KMHWF35H44A041428 NA 0579-22 2019 CHEVY IMPALA BLACK SEDAN 1G1105S30KU134696 NA 0584-22 1991 NISSAN PATHFINDER WHITE SUV JN8HD17Y7MW031939 NA 0595-22 2006 AUDI A4 GREY 4D WAUDH78E36A296375 NA 0611-22 1990 FORD F150 GREY PICKUP 1FTDF15H8LNA10643 NA 0617-22 2012 MAZDA CX-9 BLACK 4W JM3TB3CVXCO347735 NA 0625-22 2001 GMC YUKON WHITE SUV 1GKEK63U41J178382 NA 0639-22 1997 FORD ESCAPE GREY 4W 3FALP15P6VR163480 NA 0661-22 1998 CHEVY MALIBU TEAL 4S 1G1ND52T2WY106144 NA 0709-22 1999 NISSAN MAXIMA GREY 4D JN1CA21D7XT203714 NA

0437-22 2001 FORD MUSTANG

HERITAGE 1GBJP37W2F3305135 0713-22 1985 CHEVY 2000 TAN RV 1GBJP37W9F3311434 NA

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

AUTH: Ross ChiefBuzzuroofPolice

PROVIDE FINANCING FOR A PORTION OF THE COST OF ENGINEERING, DESIGNING, CONSTRUCTING, EQUIPPING, FURNISHING AND UNDERTAKING SITE WORK FOR AN ADDITION TO STEPHEN DECATUR MIDDLE SCHOOL, INCLUDING PAYMENT OF RELATED COSTS AND COSTS OF ISSUANCE, AND (2) ITS GENERAL OBLIGATION REFUNDING BONDS, AT ONE TIME OR FROM TIME TO TIME, IN AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT EXCEEDING $13,035,000, TO PROVIDE FINANCING FOR THE COST OF REFUNDING IN WHOLE OR IN PART ANY OF THE BONDS ISSUED PURSUANT TO THIS LOCAL LAW, INCLUDING PAYMENT OF RELATED COSTS AND COSTS OF ISSUANCE; PROVIDING THAT PROCEEDS OF SUCH BONDS OR BOND ANTICIPATION NOTES MAY BE APPLIED TO OTHER COSTS OF SUCH PROJECT AS DESCRIBED HEREIN; AND RECOGNIZING THAT BILL 22-5 MAY NOT HAVE BECOME EFFECTIVE.BillNo.22-13

(1) sets forth certain rules of construction; (2) provides for the authorized borrowings described in the title above; (3) provides that the bill may be amended to authorize the use of proceeds for other public purposes; (4) provides

that details of any of the authorized general obligation bonds, bond anticipation notes or refunding bonds will be determined or provided for by the County Commissioners by resolution; (5) pledges the County’s full faith and credit and unlimited taxing power to payment of any such issued general obligation debt and provides for the levy of annual property taxes sufficient to pay debt service on any such issued general obligation debt; (6) allows other available funds to be used to pay debt service on any such issued general obligation debt; (7) generally relates to the authorized general obligation debt; and (8) provides that no general obligation debt will be issued under authority of Bill 22-5.

The bill becomes effective fortyfive (45) days from the date of its passage unless petitioned to referendum.The foregoing 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 and is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center. A full copy of the bill is also available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER COMMISSIONERSCOUNTYOCD-9/15/3t

OCD-9/8/3t

NOTICE of Passage of Bill 22-14 Worcester County Commissioners

Take Notice that Bill 22-14 was passed by Commissioners Mitrecic, Elder, Bertino, Bunting, Church, Nordstrom and Purnell on September 6, 2022. Bill 22-14 is titled AN ACT TO AUTHORIZE AND EMPOWER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND TO BORROW ON ITS FULL FAITH AND CREDIT, AND TO ISSUE AND SELL ITS GENERAL OBLIGATION REFUNDING BONDS THEREFOR, AT ONE TIME OR FROM TIME TO TIME, IN AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT EXCEEDING $4,870,000, TO PROVIDE FINANCING TO REFUND IN WHOLE OR IN PART THE THEN-OUTSTANDING COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND CORRECTIONAL OFFICERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM PENSION CONTRIBUTION REFUNDING BONDS, 2013 SERIES (TAXABLE), INCLUDING PAYMENT OF RELATED COSTS AND COSTS OF ISSUANCE OF SUCH REFUNDING BONDS; AND RECOGNIZING THAT BILL 22-1 MAY NOT HAVE BECOME EFFECTIVE.Bill22-14

(1) sets forth certain rules of construction; (2) provides for

the authorized borrowing described in the title above; (3) provides that details of any of the authorized general obligation refunding bonds will be determined or provided for by the County Commissioners by resolution; (4) pledges the County’s full faith and credit and unlimited taxing power to payment of any such issued general obligation refunding bonds and provides for the levy of annual property taxes sufficient to pay debt service on any such issued general obligation refunding bonds; (5) allows other available funds to be used to pay debt service on any such issued general obligation refunding bonds; (6) generally relates to the authorized general obligation refunding bonds; and (7) provides that no general obligation refunding bonds will be issued under authority of Bill 22-1.The bill becomes effective fortyfive (45) days from the date of its passage unless petitioned to referendum.The foregoing 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 and is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center. A full copy of the bill is also available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER faithtion;CountybeeraldetailsintherulesBECOMETHATBONDS;SUANCECOSTSINGBONDS,DATEDCOUNTY,MISSIONERSOUTSTANDINGWHOLENANCING$33,590,000,AMOUNTINTIMEBONDSERALTOFULLMARYLANDERSPOWERACTberNordstromElder,passed_________________________________COMMISSIONERSCOUNTYOCD-9/15/3tNOTICEofPassageofBill22-15WorcesterCountyCommissionersTakeNoticethatBill22-15wasbyCommissionersMitrecic,Bertino,Bunting,Church,andPurnellonSeptem-6,2022.Bill22-15istitledANTOAUTHORIZEANDEM-COUNTYCOMMISSION-OFWORCESTERCOUNTY,TOBORROWONITSFAITHANDCREDIT,ANDISSUEANDSELLITSGEN-OBLIGATIONREFUNDINGTHEREFOR,ATONEORFROMTIMETOTIME,ANAGGREGATEPRINCIPALNOTEXCEEDINGTOPROVIDEFI-TOREFUNDINORINPARTTHETHEN-COUNTYCOM-OFWORCESTERMARYLANDCONSOLI-PUBLICIMPROVEMENT2014SERIES,INCLUD-PAYMENTOFRELATEDANDCOSTSOFIS-OFSUCHREFUNDINGANDRECOGNIZINGBILL22-2MAYNOTHAVEEFFECTIVE.Bill22-15(1)setsforthcertainofconstruction;(2)providesforauthorizedborrowingdescribedthetitleabove;(3)providesthatofanyoftheauthorizedgen-obligationrefundingbondswilldeterminedorprovidedforbytheCommissionersbyresolu-(4)pledgestheCounty’sfullandcreditandunlimitedtax-

ing power to payment of any such issued general obligation refunding bonds and provides for the levy of annual property taxes sufficient to pay debt service on any such issued general obligation refunding bonds; (5) allows other available funds to be used to pay debt service on any such issued general obligation refunding bonds; (6) generally relates to the authorized general obligation refunding bonds; and (7) provides that no general obligation refunding bonds will be issued under authority of Bill 22-2.The bill becomes effective fortyfive (45) days from the date of its passage unless petitioned to referendum.The foregoing 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 and is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center. A full copy of the bill is also available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

THE WORCESTER

used to pay debt service on any such issued general obligation refunding bonds; (6) generally relates to the authorized general obligation refunding bonds; and (7) provides that no general obligation refunding bonds will be issued under authority of Bill 22-3.The bill becomes effective fortyfive (45) days from the date of its passage unless petitioned to referendum.The foregoing 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 and is available for public inspection in Room 1103 of the Worcester County Government Center. A full copy of the bill is also available on the County Website at www.co.worcester.md.us.

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

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

on:thelocatedthePlanninghearingnoticetheChapter_________________________________COMMISSIONERSCOUNTYOCD-9/15/3tPLANNINGANDZONINGCOMMISSIONNOTICEOFPUBLICHEARINGPursuanttotheprovisionsof110,Zoning,oftheCodeofTownofOceanCity,Maryland,isherebygiventhatapublicwillbeconductedbytheandZoningCommissioninCouncilChambersofCityHallat301BaltimoreAvenueinTownofOceanCity,MarylandTUESDAY,OCTOBER4,2022At7:00pmPursuanttotheprovisionsofSec-tion110-143oftheTownofOceanCityZoningOrdinance,azoningmapamendmentisproposedforaparceldesignatedasPFPierFran-chiseDistrict.TheintentofthePierFranchiseDistrictistoidentifytheamusementandfishingpierarealo-catedeastofAtlanticAvenue(board-walk)atWicomicoStreet.Theuseandoperationofthisdistrictisreg-ulatedunderChapter39,ArticleVI(PierFranchise)oftheCodeoftheTownofOceanCitywhichsuper-sedesanyconflictingordinances,in-cludingthezoningordinance.ThePFAdjustmentisdescribedas:1)PierFranchiseZoningDistricttobeadjustedtoincludethefullPierFranchiseAreaasdefinedinSection39-401oftheOceanCityCodeofOr-dinancesandrecordedintheLandRecordsofWorcesterCountyPlatSRBLiber252Folio28.APPLICANT:MAYORANDCITYCOUNCIL,TOWNOFOCEANCITY(FILE#22-14100009)Nooralorwrittentestimonywillbeacceptedafterthecloseofthepublichearing.Publichearingsthatarenotcom-

THE WORCESTER

scribed being due and in arrears and unpaid; and in order to compel the payment of the same, together with interest thereon, Attorney and Advertising Fees of $258, and the costs of attending the proceeding, as provided by law, by virtue of the power and authority vested in me as the City Manager and Collector of municipal taxes in the Tenth Election District, Worcester County, Ocean City, Maryland as provided by the Acts of the General Assembly of Maryland (Tax-Property Article Section 14-808 et seq. of the Annotated Code of Maryland), the undersigned City Manager and Collector of Taxes, will sell at public auction, at City Hall, 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland, on

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2022

AT THE HOUR OF 10:00 A.M.

the below described properties:

Item 1 10-758769 and 12173574223: Described as The Meridian Condominium, Phase 1, Unit 503, Assessed to Kam Lun Au Yeung and Kara Au Yeung, Assessed Value $752,100, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $2,593.62.

Item 2 10-265592 and 15604141432: Described as Dawn’s Cove Condominium, Unit F, Assessed to Bernetta A. Vaughan, Trustee of the Bernetta A. Vaughan Revocable Living Trust, Assessed Value $270,000, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties DueItem$1008.28.310-218055 and 15077333100: Described as Marshall Inn Condominium, Unit 303, Assessed to Blackwater Investing, LLC, Assessed Value $85,400, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $791.63.

Item 4 10-218187 and 14999533122: Described as Marshall Inn Condominium, Unit 314, Assessed to Blackwater Rentals, Assessed Value $90,400, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $850.88.

Item 8 10-216982 and 3582332916: Described as Skyhaven Condominium, Unit 101 Assessed to Rose N. Blevins, Rodney L. Blevins and Nancy S. Blevins, Assessed Value $151,500, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $975.66

Item 10_10-159199 and 3106323346: Described as Braemar Towers Condominium, Unit 2012, South Building, Assessed to George F. Carroll and Lorraine L. Carroll, Assessed Value $272,300, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $2,498.45.Item11 10-430828 and 14564366883: Described as The Garden Condominium I at Sunset Island, Unit LUG-BE-3C, Phase 5, Assessed to Michael T. Casino and Stacy A. Casino, Assessed Value $317,700, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties DueItem$1,874.78.1210-151120 and 2990921998: Described as Cara Mar Condominium, Unit 100, Assessed to Walter Demidenko and Barbara A. Demidenko, Assessed Value $158,700, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,267.75.

Item 13 10-185777 and 792327638: Described as Lot 10, Blk 32, Section 2A, Caine Woods, Assessed to Marlene T. DiPino and Paul J. DiPino, Sr., Assessed Value

$261,833, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,438.85.

Item 15 10-080487 and 199259978: Described as Beachloft Condominium, Unit 4K, Assessed to Shirley R. Ellis and Barbara A. Montgomery, Assessed Value $207,867, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $850.04.

Item 16 10-154871 and 9257122632: Described as Tides Edge Condominium, Unit 305, Assessed to David S. Eshenower and Theresa A. Eshenower, Assessed Value $237,100, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,270.84.

Item 17 10-267625 and 6799541795: Described as Jockey Beach Club Condominium, Unit 381, Bldg. C, Phase III, Assessed to Thomas B. Ettz, Assessed Value $117,100, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties DueItem$1,059.79.1810-067413 and 1552417834: Described as Ocean Waye 45 Condominium, Unit 104, Assessed to Elaine Evans, Assessed Value $76,800, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $580.88.

Item 19 10-066956 and 1552397752: Described as Ocean Waye 45 Condominium, Unit 201, Assessed to Elaine Evans, Assessed Value $76,800, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $580.88.

Item 20 10-067618 and 1552377868: Described as Ocean Waye 45 Condominium, Unit 107, Assessed to Elaine Evans, Assessed Value $76,800, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $580.88.

Item 21 10-124662 and 10255717580: Described as Golden Sands Club Condominium, Unit 1908, Assessed to John Gann and Denise Gann, Assessed Value $370,500, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties DueItem$2,118.64.2210-327431 and 5250351086: Described as Lighthouse Cove Condominium, Unit B, Assessed to Craig L. Garfield, Jr., Assessed Value $165,600, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,744.95.Item23

10-056489 and 1464516008: Described as Gull Way Villas Condominium Stage III, Unit 12202, Assessed to Nicholas A. Gigliotti, Assessed Value $141,100, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties DueItem$1,263.63.2410-082684 and 13475510354: Described as Atlantic Court Condominium, Unit 204, Assessed to Jeffrey Eric Gore, Assessed Value $147,300, Wastewater, Personal Property, Interest and Penalties Due $1,183.86.Item25

10-258669 and 12488540198: Described as Montego Bay Mobile Home Park, Section 6C, Lot 339, Assessed to Michael O. Green, Assessed Value $142,967, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,286.00.Item28 10-302803 and 14487347876: Described as Lighthouse Square Condominium, Unit 202, Assessed to Caitlin J. Hartigan, Assessed Value $148,600, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,622.21.Item29

10-247365 and 10828338178: Described as Club Ocean Villas Condominium, Unit 41, Phase IV, Bldg. 4, Assessed to Michele M.

Hines, Assessed Value $178,800, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties DueItem$1,483.74.3010-389984 and 9869561301: Described as Wild Dunes Condominium, Unit 301, Assessed to Yvette C. Hudyma, Assessed Value $759,000, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $2,868.31.

Item 31 10-052920 and 897655466: Described as Eldorado Condominium, Unit 305, Assessed to Andrew A. Janiak and Denise Janiak, Assessed Value $143,367, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties DueItem$1,575.41.3210-131634 and 9236718788: Described as Watergate Condominium, Unit 11, Assessed to Joseph R. Kostack and Janice E. Kostack, Assessed Value $196,500, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties DueItem$1,857.56.3310-113032 and 2364915478: Described as 9400 Ocean Highway Condominium, Unit 1407, Assessed to Stuart M. Lesser, Assessed Value $256,500, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,831.10.Item35 10-100038 and 9416913230: Described as The Chateau Condominium, Unit A-305, Assessed to Lia Lujan, Assessed Value $185,667, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,487.22.

Item 36 10-308631 and 9871548816: Described as Lost Colony IV Condominium, Unit 131, Assessed to Anthony F. Mammano and Sandra L. Mammano, Assessed Value $149,867, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,136.85.

Item 39 10-310792 and 7208749158: Described as Cedar Villas Condominium, Unit A, Assessed to Charles F. Murphy, Barbara L. Murphy, Mark D. Murphy and Lori Martin, Assessed Value $184,000, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties DueItem$1,810.20.4010-232082 and 11718935584: Described as Bali Condominium, Unit 301, Assessed to Mark J. Paden and Roberta Lieberman, Assessed Value $97,900, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,270.56.Item41 10-164834 and 14419324340: Described as Bluewater East A Condominium, Unit AS-306, Assessed to Christopher J. Palenchar and Nicole E. Palenchar, Assessed Value $134,967, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,857.04.

Item 43 10-765374 and 13025975167: Described as The Gateway Grand Condominium, Unit 1705, Assessed to Dennis R. Preshoot and Michele R. Preshoot, Assessed Value $759,000, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $2,339.55.

Item 46 10-147387 and 14801321450: Described as Carousel Center Condominium, Unit T-1101, Assessed to R & R Investments of Virginia LLC, Assessed Value $417,867, Wastewater, Bulk Pick-Up, Interest and Penalties Due $1,516.46.Item48 10-263050 and 6286340984: Described as Bay Island Townhouse Condominium, Unit 2, Assessed to Bernard E. Roache, Jr., Assessed Value $202,200, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,621.87.

Item 49 10-390079 and 8667761377: Described as Ocean Break Condominium, Unit 102, Assessed to Rosemarie Rossano, f/k/a Rosemarie Sporbert and Frank J. Rossano, Assessed Value $315,800, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,380.26.Item50 10-248868 and 13715338434: Described as Cinnamon Bay Condominium, Unit 1, Assessed to 9101 Rusty Anchor, LLC, Assessed Value $226,300, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,546.43.

Item 51 10-303427 and 14117147980: Described as Silver Sun Condominium, Unit 110, Assessed to Anthony G. Santoro and Kristina L. Santoro, Assessed Value $216,000, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties DueItem$2,027.83.5210-252679 and 9738139112: Described as Sea Nymph Condominium, Unit 11A, Assessed to Michael Schultz and Deborah Schultz, Assessed Value $99,900, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties DueItem$910.25.5310-262623 and 4303940908: Described as Jamaica Condominium III, Unit 104, Assessed to Joan E. Seidenspinner, Assessed Value $123,900, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $887.22.

Item 54 10-118816 and 7003716516: Described as Atlantis Condominium, Unit 306, Assessed to Bernard Siler, Assessed Value $286,587, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,618.48.

Item 55 10-751470 and 15537573195: Described as The Garden Condominium II at Sunset Island Phase 3, Unit LUG-BG-2D, Assessed to Christopher Shawn Smith and Keena Ebony Smith, Assessed Value $305,700, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,151.50.

Item 56 10-155193 and 6434522686: Described as Starfish V Condominium, Unit 203, Assessed to Anthony M. Soletto, Jr., Pamela E. Rubio-Soletto and Nancy J. Rubio, Assessed Value $228,700, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,254.95.Item57 10-280168 and 4595544020: Described as Pelican Beach Condominium, Unit 207, Assessed to Richard C. Solibakke and Janice Solibakke, Assessed Value $539,900, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties DueItem$1,499.23.5810-753058 and 11389573443: Described as Shark Finn II Condominium, Unit 402, Assessed to Vito A. Sperduto, Dione Enea, Pasquale Enea and Stephanie Enea, Assessed Value $1,097,400, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $3,231.95.Item60 10-221595 and 14216133724: Described as Crab Cove Condominium, Unit 6, Assessed to Shawn D. Spurry and Kim M. Spurry, Assessed Value $195,700, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties DueItem$1,581.66.6110-221617 and 3654933728: Described as Crab Cove Condominium, Unit 8, Assessed to Daniel A. Steadman and Jennifer B. Steadman, Assessed Value $137,900, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties DueItem$2,586.416210-098521 and 14226512988: Described as The Chateau

Condominium, Unit 104B, Assessed to Stacy L. Stotler, Assessed Value $185,667, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,117.51.

Item 64 10-318459 and 1022950024: Described as Montego Bay Mobile Home Park, Section 8C, Lot 78, Assessed to James M. Walker, Assessed Value $278,667, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,894.30.Item65 10-230322 and 3790735274: Described as Ocean Point No. 2 Condominium, Unit 317, Assessed to Bernard H. White, III and Loretta M. White, Assessed Value $118,800, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $786.53.

Item 66 10-274478 and 6273943030: Described as Sunchaser Condominium, Unit 108, Assessed to Leslie N. Wilson and Kathleen M. Wilson, Assessed Value $224,800, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties DueItem$1,880.47.6710-124069 and 10396317472: Described as Golden Sands Club Condominium, Unit 814, Assessed to Jon Wooleyhan, Assessed Value $155,500, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties Due $1,075.07.

Item 68 10-058791 and 1139236418: Described as Bayshore Condominium, Unit 44, Central Building, Assessed to William R. Zichos III, Assessed Value $91,300, Wastewater, Interest and Penalties DueOCD-9/15/4t$906.80.

NOTICE OF SALE OF BALI ID PARK STOCK AND LEASES

Due to loan defaults and pursuant to proper authority, HPP, LLC, the secured creditor, shall sell the shares of stock in Bali Hi Park, Inc., a Maryland cooperative corporation, and proprietary leases in Bali Hi Park, St. Martin's Neck Road, Bishopville, Maryland, identified below to the highest bidder for each item on October 12, 2022, at 1 p.m. at Bergey & Company, P.A., 8938 Worcester

Highway, Berlin, Maryland 21811:

1. Four thousand five hundred (4,500) shares of stock titled in the names of Stephen M. Burke and Phyllis D. Burke and the Proprietary Lease for Bali Hi Park Lot. No. 123.

2. Five Thousand (5,000) shares of stock titled in the name of April Compton, and the Proprietary Lease for Bali Hi Park Lot. No. 185.

The highest bidder for each numbered item above ( other than HPP, LLC) shall pay a deposit of $5,000.00 in cash or cashier/certified check at the auction and the balance of the purchase price within 15 days thereafter, at which time HPP, LLC shall transfer good title to the stock and lease. In addition, at time of transfer, the Buyer shall pay $750 for costs of transfer and be responsible for Bali Hi Park dues from the date of sale. For more information, you may call James W. Almand,

BAAV 22-106 A request has been submitted for a variance from Section 38-71 (a)(5) which requires a 3’ elevation above the base flood elevation of 6’ NAVD. Locally known as 609 BAYSHORE DR UNIT 33 parcel number 5347 -33 in the Town of Ocean Applicant/City.Owner: TONYOCD-9/22/2tMOREAU

IN THE MATTER OF: Kaitlyn Skye Ewing FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO: Victor Orpheus Willowdean IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTERMARYLANDCOUNTY, Case No.: NOTC-23-FM-22-000332ICE

FOR PUBLICATION (ADULT) (Md. Rule 15-901))

The above petitioner has filed a Petition for Change of Name to change their name from Kaitlyn Skye Ewing to Victor Orpheus Willowdean.Thepetitioner is seeking a name change because: This is my preferred name and I wish to obtain proper identification.Anyperson may file an objection to the Petition for Change of Name on or before 10/28/2022. The objection must be supported by an affidavit (written statement confirmed by oath or affirmation) and served on the Petitioner (Md. Rule 1-321). If no timely objection is filed, the court may issue a judgment or grant the. name change.

A copy of this notice must be published one time in a newspaper of general circulation in the county/city at least fifteen (15) days before the deadline to file anSusanobjection.R.BranieckiClerk

True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD _________________________________OCD-9/22/1t

IN THE MATTER OF: KONSTANTINOS JOSEPH O’BRIENIN

THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTERMARYLANDCOUNTY, Case No.: NOTC-23-FM-22-000331ICE

FOR PUBLICATION (ADULT) (Md. Rule 15-901)

The above Petitioner has filed a Petition for Change of Name they seek to change their name from Konstantinos Joseph O’Brien to Konstantinos Joseph Sotirakos.

The petitioner is seeking a name change because: My parents recently became divorced and I wish to take my mother’s last name. This is because of some of the things that I have heard about what my father hasAnydone.person may file an objection to the Petition for Name Change on or before 10/28/2022. The objection must be supported by an affidavit (written statement confirmed by oath or affirmation) and served on the petitioner (Md. Rule 1-321). If no timely objection is filed, the court may issue a judgment or grant the name change.

A copy of this notice must be published one time in a newspaper of general circulation in the county/city at least fifteen (15) days before the deadline to file an

Susanobjection.R.BranieckiClerk

True Copy

Test: Susan R. Braniecki

Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD

AGH names chief nursing officer

(Sept. 23, 2022) Atlantic General Hospital and Health System officials have announced that Mandy Bounds, DNP, MSN, RN, CPQH, CCRN, will join the organization Oct. 31 to serve as the new chief nursing officer and vice president of patient care services.

Bounds has more than 16 years of experience in healthcare, with a background in nursing administration; hospital quality, safety and patient experience; and nursing education.

Most recently, she has overseen acute and critical care services, infection prevention, patient safety and patient experience initiatives in various roles at University of Maryland Shore Regional Health.Bounds started her nursing career as a licensed practical nurse in long term care after completing the certificate program at Wor-Wic Community College. Nine months later, she joined UM Shore Regional Health as a bedside critical care registered nurse after earning an associate degree in nursing at WorWic.In

2010, she earned her BSN from Wilmington University and transitioned to the clinical coordinator role for its Critical Care Unit.

gained progressive management experience, earning her Master of Science in Nursing and then a terminal degree in nursing practice from Wilmington University.Bounds

served as director of patient safety, experience and high reliability at UM Shore Regional Health for nearly two years before becoming their director of acute and critical care services in March.Bounds

strives for excellence in patient care, with a focus on quality, safety and patient experience, and is committed to building a strong workforce.

She is well-versed in Magnet recognition programs, Leapfrog Safety Grades, Joint Commission accreditation, and shared governance programs.

Bounds is a visiting professor for Chamberlain University’s doctoral nursing practice (DNP) program and is an adjunct faculty member for the nursing programs at Wilmington University, where she strives to inspire and empower nurse leaders to have a strong impact on healthcare delivery.

She has lived on the Eastern Shore, where she met her husband and started her family, since 2004.

RealtorsREPORTassociation talks, compares variety of issues

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

pute resolution is right.

As described in the source Arbitration vs Mediation (Pepperdine, 2022), mediation and conflict resolution are options for business disagreements with two parties who still wish to remain friends, partners, and will perhaps work together in the future.Mediators are neutral third par-

She continued her education as she

(Sept. 23, 2022) The National Association of Realtors explains the differences and the pros and cons to both mediation and arbitration, alternative dispute resolution options when a dispute arises from a real estateThetransaction.situationand desired outcome will determine which alternative dis-

See INFO Page 50 new laminate flooring (2020), newer washer & dryer (2019), cathedral ceilings, crown moldings, large closets, and more. Community amenities include 2 inground swimming pools, 1 kiddie pool, a pickle ball court, an 8 acre wildlife sanctuary w/large pond and blacktop walking/ jogging trail, and a bayfront boardwalk w/3 fishing/crabbing piers...all for a low HOA fee of $360.00 a year!

MONTEGO

Well-maintained 3BR/2BA home in the Montego Bay community of N. Ocean City. Home features split BR/BA floorplan w/bedrooms & baths on each end. Upgrades include a roof (2017), HVAC system (2018), hot water heater (2020), remodeled bathrooms, breakfast bar, laundry room w/full size w/d, clude kiddie tennis 9-hole bing canal-front 81/2-mile

Mandy Bounds

REAL ESTATE

Worcester County hosting fall job fairs in Snow Hill

(Sept. 23, 2022) Worcester County Human Resources will hold a series of job fairs this fall in the Worcester County Government Center’s third floor training room in Snow Hill from noon to 3 p.m.

Job Fairs to promote new career opportunities will take place Oct. 20, Nov. 17, and Dec. 15.

Potential applicants will be able to meet with professionals from human resources and other departments to discuss career options. Computers will be available for job seekers to

STUDENT UPDATE

complete and submit applications onsite.Worcester County government offers full benefits for full-time employees, career advancement opportunities, and membership in the Maryland State Retirement System.For a complete list of job opportunities, HankinsHuman.us/.https://worcesterhr.co.worcester.mdvisitFormoreinformation,contactResourcesSpecialistAnnat410-632-0090.

REAL ESTATE REPORT

Info on variety of realty issues

Continued from Page 49

ties, and mediations are often not binding.Alternative dispute resolution refers to the methods of dispute resolution that do not escalate to Unlikecourt.mediation, which often results in an agreement, arbitration usually involves coming to a reward or decision of some sort at the end of resolution. Arbitrators are often lawyers, and the agreements made during arbitration are usually binding.

• Mediation, which is non-binding, involves a mediator assisting both parties with communication, in hopes of coming to a shared agreement.•Arbitration often involves a binding agreement and occurs when an arbitrator, often a lawyer, applies law

and facts to the case resulting in a reward or Othersolution.differences are that mediation is meant to be

tweenfocusesMediation,bywin-losetweenfocusArbitrationnon-adversarial.andlitigationondisagreementsbe-thepartiesandresultindecisionsimposedthearbitratororjudge.ontheotherhand,onagreementbe-theparties.Partieswhoagreetomedi-

ate retain the right to pursue other legal remedies. If parties cannot reach a mutually acceptable settlement during the mediation conference, they are free to arbitrate or litigate their dispute as if mediation never took place.

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

Every year the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean PinesOcean City awards scholarships to local graduating high school seniors. During the club’s Sept. 7 meeting, Mikayla Denault, who was a member of the Kiwanis-sponsored Key Club at Stephen Decatur High School and served as its treasurer, returned to speak to the group. She was awarded a scholarship by the club and is entering her junior year at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, where she is majoring in Journalism and Political Science. She is also the author of the children’s book “Two Hens and a Chick,” which is available on Amazon. 11am-2pm

Parcel on Herring Creek allowed to rezone R-2 to C-2

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Worcester County Commissioners on Tuesday approved a change in zoning from residential to commercial for one of two properties along Route 50, between Herring Creek and the Route 50 Thebridge.property, located on the northeast side of the Herring Creek bridge, is currently zoned R-2 Suburban Residential District, and the owners, Dawn and Jeff Pruitt were given the green light to have the 4.5acre parcel zoned C-2 General Commercial District.

The Pruitts have claimed previously that there was a mistake made when the zoning was designated R-2 in the county’s most recent comprehensive rezoning, done in November 2019. When zoning was established in the 1960s, the area was given an R2 classification, which it retained in 1978, 1992, and 2009.

The commissioners were tasked with only approving the rezoning of the parcel, but the waters were muddied when one resident provided each of the seven board members with concept plans that nearly every resident in attendance was holding in front of Thosethem.concept plans show a nearly 9,000-square-foot, three to fourstory building, and 99 parking spaces. The building appears to be located inside the critical area, or 100 feet from the water.

One of the concerns expressed by residents was the drainage from the heavily paved property running into Herring Creek, which is already impaired.One resident, John O’Dell, told the commissioners the property comes within 50 feet of the water, and the nearly 12,000 square foot paved section with little buffer zone was only going to facilitate more runoff into the creek.

Many residents who attended a public hearing in Snow Hill on Tuesday were in possession of conceptual site plans for a property on the northeast side of the Route 50 Herring Creek Bridge that showed a three-tofour story building and 99 parking spaces on the waterfront property. The hearing was for the Worcester County Commissioners to consider rezoning the property from residential to commercial, which it did in a 6-1 vote with Commissioner Chip Bertino in opposition.

SITE PLAN COASTKEEPERASSATEAGUECOURTESY

Residents express concerns regarding shared site plans

“If you have that much runoff into the creek, it’s going to have a bad effect on the creek,” he said.

Charles Shorely, another resident who spoke during the public hearing, told the commissioners he was concerned that changing the zoning to commercial would open the doorway to other uses like a waterfront restaurant, which could affect the quality of life he and his neighbors enjoy.

“This is not what it’s about. It’s not about commerce all the time,” resident Patrice Lehmann Burbage said. “If it was supposed to be, this would have been changed several years ago.

“You knew what you got when you bought it, OK … you got residential.”

Hugh Cropper IV, the attorney representing the Pruitts, provided the commissioners with the lay of the land as it stands today as compared to what was provided by the residents earlier during the hearing.

When asked during the public hearing whether he had seen the plans making the rounds among the residents, Cropper acted as if he had not and said the concept would require a substantial amount of variance to gain approval. But toward the end of the hearing, Cropper said he provided the draft plan to an inquiring resident and apologized..

During his rebuttal of statements made by residents during the hearing, Cropper said nobody mentioned anything about the comprehensive plan and what designates the area as a commercial corridor, as it is zoned today.

He also said the property is more developable now if it were to be split in half – a commercial zoning would be less developable.

To prevent runoff, Cropper added, the property will be sewered, have a 100-foot buffer, and be subject to strictCommissionerscrutiny.

Josh Nordstrom was the first to move and accept the findings provided by the planning commission, which endorsed the project. His motion was seconded by Commissioner Ted Elder.

Commissioner Chip Bertino, though, said he could not “unring the bell” having seen the concept plans that made the rounds. He added that he could not support the change of zoning because the plans showed a significant amount of disruption to theElder,property.though he supported Nordstrom’s motion, said the project could be before the commissioners again and told the property owners and Cropper there needs to be a plan put together that suits everybody – the residents and property owners.

“You can’t unsee what you’ve seen, but I can’t unsee this,” Commissioner Diana Purnell said.

Still, she added, she was going to trust her gut and vote in favor of the zoning change, warning the planners they better have something better when they return.

When the final vote was made, the commissioners approved the zoning change 6-1, with Bertino as the sole opponent.

Continued

GREG WEHNER/OCEAN CITY TODAY

RISE AND SHINE

A handful of early birds catch the first rays of the morning as the sun lifts up over the horizon and peaks through the Ocean City Fishing Pier.

Bike race shines light on need for permits

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) Organizers of the Sea Gull Century Tour have agreed to pay roughly $3,000 to Worcester County EMS providers for paramedic coverage during the 100-mile bike ride that takes place primarily in the county, though the full cost of coverage is closer to $14,000.

Members of EMS met with the county commissioners on Tuesday to discuss the Oct. 8 bike race, about 60 percent of which takes place in Worcester County and leads racers from Salisbury to Assateague and back in a roundabout way.

According to the EMS personnel, the cost of providing full coverage during the race is approximately $14,000.

The Sea Gull Century Foundation has agreed to provide $3,080 for partial service, which would provide for one ambulance from three companies, each staffed with two personnel.

In the past, the EMS companies did not charge for events, but instead relied on donations.

After going back and forth with event organizers, Sea Gull’s sponsors said

they did not have the funding for the entire amount and decided to only have coverage for 10 hours with two EMS personnel members at each station.

“Our fire companies are dealing with a lot of expense stress,” Commissioner Chip Bertino said. “Here’s a situation where they are putting money out and they are not being properlyBertinocompensated.”askedwhatthe county could do on its end, and whether the streets could be closed during the event.

Because many of the streets are State maintained, closing them would be out of the question.

But Commissioner Joe Mitrecic jokingly suggested the streets could be milled, making it a bit of a rough ride for the cyclists.

The EMS representatives described a situation previously that happened in Pocomoke City during the event. One of the Pocomoke ambulances was located on the race route in Snow Hill when an emergency occurred in Pocomoke. Because the unit was dedicated to the race, another ambulance had to respond from Showell and did not ar-

rive until 40 minutes after the call.

Commissioner Josh Nordstrom asked whether the group had a memorandum of understanding with the county and Commissioner Bud Church said he could not recall such an MOU in the past.

Other than send a strongly worded letter to organizers, Nordstrom said he was not sure what the county could do then.

He explained that if an ambulance is not in an area where there is an emergency, it could result in death and the taxpayers would pay for it.

“We have to put our citizens…before anything else,” Nordstrom said. “That includes this bike ride.”

Mitrecic agreed that a strongly worded letter should be sent to the race organizers. He also admitted to joking about milling the roads, though he said it could happen.

The commissioners voted unanimously to bill the organizers the $3,080 and to have the county cover the remaining amount. The commissioners also agreed to investigate a special event permit for future events like this.

Worcester County Commissioners agreed to bill the organizers of the Sea Gull Century Tour bicycle race $3,080 for EMS services, even though the true amount to have full coverage is closer to $14,000. The commissioners also agreed to look into a special event permit for future events that break down costs associated with events that organizers will be required to pay.

Hogan announces grants for highway safety totaling $13M

(Sept. 23, 2022) Gov. Larry Hogan last week announced more than $13 million in federal and state highway safety grants to be used to help prevent motor vehicle crashes and eliminate roadway fatalities.

The state funds, nearly $83,000 of which will be distributed in Worcester County, were disbursed at the start of the fiscal year, and the federal funds will be distributed Oct. 1 by the state Highway Safety Office.

“Since the beginning of our administration, we have worked to prioritize safety on our highways through innovative projects and partnerships,” Hogan said. “These grants will continue to help reduce crashes and fatalities all across the state and ensure highway safety remains a top priority.” In 2021, 562 traffic deaths occurred on Maryland roads. These included 131 pedestrians and six bicyclists.While that number is down from

2020 when the state had 573 fatalities, including 138 pedestrians and 15 bicyclists, police reports continue to show speed, impairment, and inadequate or improper seat belt use as the most common contributing factors in motor vehicle fatalities.

The highway safety funds will be used to increase the use of seat belt, to prevent impaired, aggressive, and distracted driving, to increase road safety for all users, to help pay for overtime for officers engaged in traffic law enforcement and to help improve Maryland’s traffic data systems.Thegrant money is allocated based on crash data in each locale.

Locally, the Berlin Police Department will receive $6,000, Ocean City will receive $39,204, Ocean Pines will be awarded $3,996, the county health department will get $20,315, and the sheriff’s office will be given $6,300.

County announces waterline flushing to occur in October

(Sept. 23, 2022) Worcester County’s semi-annual program for flushing waterlines will take place in October, as Water and Wastewater Division personnel turn out to Assateague Pointe, Edgewater/Nantucket Point, Deer Point, Landings, Mystic Harbour, Newark, Ocean Reef, and West Ocean City Service Areas between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4 Thep.m.following proposed dates for the flushing of the waterlines are subject to change.

• Week of Oct. 3 - Assateague Pointe, Deer Point, Mystic Harbour, Ocean Reef, West Ocean City.

• Oct. 18-20 – Newark.

• Oct. 18 – Edgewater Acres / Nantucket

RoutinePointeflushing of the water sys-

tem helps to reduce the frequency of discolored water. Public Works crews open and close the hydrants, flushing out the built-up iron deposits. Sometimes, this can lead to temporary increases in suspended iron, which should settle out within a few hours of the flushing, county officials said.

County officials did advise, however, that even on dates the water lines in one section are not being flushed, it is still possible for consumers to see discolored water coming from their taps.

If area residents notice that their water becomes cloudy during these times, allow the water to run for a few minutes until it becomes clear. For more information, call the Water and Wastewater Division at 410-6415251.

PHOTO COURTESY KAT KOUTS

TIDE POOLS

Tide pools form on the beach at 100th Street earlier this month.

Worcester Prep students build veteran ramp

Youth construct access tool in partnership with church’s Small Miracles

(Sept. 23, 2022) A group of Worcester Preparatory School students, in partnership with the Community Church of Ocean Pines Small Miracles program and Chesapeake Housing Association, built a ramp for a local veteran in Snow Hill on Sept. 10.

Worcester Prep teacher Allison Bescak and students – freshman Caitlin Shimko, sophomore Landon Schul, juniors Lebby Becker, Dylan Simons, Hunter Simons, Elaina Elrick, Moorea Phillips, Natalie Chadwell, Claire Windrow, Isabella Huber, Vanesska Hall and Luke Hopkins, and senior Cooper Ludt – were joined by members of Small Miracles and Chesapeake Housing Association.

About six years ago, Worcester Prep alumni Devin Wallace expressed interest in joining the Appalachia Service Project (ASP).

Bescak had already worked with the program for many years, so she gathered a large group of students to travel to the mountains and help build homes to be safer in the rigid atmosphere. Unfortunately, when covid hit they had to come up with a new plan.

“We realized that it is just as important to serve our own community,” Bescak said. “We partnered with the

Community Church of Ocean Pines and their program, Small Miracles, to do similar work for our fellow neighbors.”This past weekend’s project surfaced by Michael Franklin, director of the Chesapeake Housing Mission and Worcester Prep parent, who was approached by Small Miracles asking if a group of individuals would be willing to help build a ramp for a local vet-

Worcester County students finish collegiate programs

eran.“I have found, along with the students, that once you get out of our comfort zone and push yourself to be of service to others, there is a such a positive feeling that arises, and that makes it contagious,” Bescak said of taking on the project. “Some might argue that it is a selfish feeling to want to feel good for helping your neighbor.

I say, capture that feeling and let it spread like wild fire!”

She hopes that the project will become a movement for the school, as more and more students become involved, which is good news considering Chesapeake Housing Association has already expressed interest in partnering with Worcester on a regular basis.

(Sept. 23, 2022)

The following Worcester County students completed their program requirements to graduate with a certificate (CT), associate of applied science (AAS), associate of arts in teaching (AAT), associate of science (AS) or associate of arts (AA) degree from Wor-Wic Community College this past fall and spring.

Berlin: Terri Adkins, AAT, Education; Jurgita Blake, AS, Nursing; Gabriel

L. Bradley, AA, General Studies; Nicholas Burak, AAS, Physical Therapist Assistant; Gavin Bussard, CT, Criminal Justice; Dinongu Chilengi, AAS, Business; Zachary Thomas Conway, AA, General Studies; Christopher David Cooke, AAS, Physical Therapist Assistant; Gionna M. DePasquale, CT, Nursing; Robert Marshall Dixon, CT, Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Management; See COUNTY Page 56

A group of Worcester Preparatory School students, in partnership with the Community Church of Ocean Pines Small Miracles program and Chesapeake Housing Association, built a ramp for a local veteran in Snow Hill on Sept. 10.

Scholarship cemented for deputy kill on duty

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Glenn Hilliard Legacy Scholarship has been established at the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore to honor the life and legacy of Wicomico County Sheriff’s Deputy Cpl. Glenn Hilliard, who was killed in the line of duty on June 12.

The scholarship will be awarded annually to a student who is pursuing a career in law enforcement and is attending Cpl. Hilliard’s alma matter, The University of Maryland Eastern Shore.The scholarship, held at the Community Foundation, was created with a pledge of up to $350,000 towards the scholarship from the Humphreys Foundation.Thispledge consists of a gift of

$10,000 per year for five years, with an additional $1 for every $2 raised in donations, for up to $75,000 per year for fourBerlinyears.Police Chief Arnold Downing, who served as Hillard’s chief and mentor during his employment with the Berlin Police Department, is serving as the chairman of the Glenn Hilliard Legacy Scholarship Fund Committee.

“I hope this scholarship will be a living legacy, one that will allow Glenn’s spirit to touch and enrich the lives of others well beyond our years,” said Downing. “My wish is that Glenn’s life story will encourage others to pursue a career in law enforcement, especially those underrepresented in the profession. Additionally, I hope the scholar-

ship will eliminate the financial barriers that can often derail the purest dreams.”Hilliard’s 18-year law enforcement career included service as a Wicomico County Sheriff’s deputy, Deputy U.S. Marshall task force officer, Crisfield police officer, Berlin police officer, and seasonal police officer for Ocean City Police“GlennDepartment.wasatrue self-motivator,” said Downing. “He strived to be a better police officer each day — never away from a position, but rather running to a better situation in his commitment to service.”

To make a tax-deductible contribution to the scholarship fund visit CFES.org/donate and select “Glenn Hilliard Legacy Scholarship” in the

drop-down menu. The scholarship fund is managed by the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore.

GOLD celebrates ‘25 Years of Dignity’ Oct. 7

(Sept. 23, 2022) Worcester County GOLD (Giving Other Lives Dignity), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, will host its 25th anniversary gala at the Ocean City Fontainebleau Resort on Oct. Honorees7. include past and present GOLD board members; Community Impact Award recipient Worcester County Bar Association; Volunteer Engagement Award winner the Kiwa-

nis Club of Greater Ocean PinesOcean City; and Excellence in Service Award recipient Lillian Wilkinson.

“For 25 years, GOLD has worked alongside numerous community partners to bring dignity to Worcester County residents,” said Shannon Wright, GOLD Board of Directors president. “This gala will not only celebrate how far GOLD has come and the people who have made it possible,

but also all that is still to be done to achieve GOLD’s mission. On behalf of GOLD, we would like to invite everyone who has been involved, in any capacity, with GOLD to join us for this milestone celebration at the 25th anniversary gala on Oct. 7.”

Tickets cost $125 per person and include a cocktail hour with open bar,

passed hors d’oeuvres, three-course plated meal and silent auction.

GOLD is seeking event sponsors and items to be utilized in the silent auction. All proceeds benefit Worcester County GOLD. Visit WorcesterGOLD.org for event details, sponsorship opportunities, and to purchase tickets.

County students receive degrees

Hannah Rose FauntLeRoy, AS, Nursing; Allison P. Hunter, AA, Business; Allison Marie Johnston, AA, General Studies; Amanda Kimball, AA, General Studies; Sophia Victoria Kokkinos, AAT, Education; Christine M. Komlos, CT, Nursing; Michele L. Lewis, AAS, Business; Albert M. Linamen, CT, Criminal Justice; Conor Samuel Perry, AA, Business; Brianna Romersa, AAT, Education; Michael O. Sidell, AA, Business; Alivia Frances Spagnola, AS, Nursing; Thomas R. Stoltzfus, CT, Criminal Justice; Madison L. Thumma, AAS, Radiologic Technology; and Michael T. Todd, AAS,Bishopville:Education.Jamie L. Walsh, AS, Nursing.Girdletree: Victoria N. Makuchal, AA, General Studies.

Newark: Lauren E. Lewis, AS, Nursing; and Mohammad Humayun Nawaz, AAS, Criminal Justice.

Ocean City: Jillian B. Alascio, AS, Nursing; Joya Canfield, AS, Nursing; Shelby Lynne Evans, AA, General Studies; Jayna L. Griffith, AA, General Studies; Rachel L. Hreshko, AA, General Studies; Nolan W. Kilchenstein, CT, Criminal Justice; Devon R. Kramer, AAS, Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Management; Jessica S. Lavelle, AAS, Physical Therapist Assistant; Miranda A. Luby, CT, Nursing; Kevin A. Murillo, CT, Criminal Justice; Matthew J. Porada, CT, Criminal Justice; Jenna L. Radford,

AS, Nursing; Samuel Edward Rakowski, AA, Business; Brenda Bernice Smith, CT, Nursing; Daniel Frank Stepcic, AA, General Studies; and Hailey Alexandra Turk, AA, General Studies.

Pocomoke City: Patrick L. Giordano, AA, General Studies; Gary E. Hillard, AA, Computer Studies; Kiera Jubilee, AA, Business; Latashia Antonett Kellam, CT, Criminal Justice; Kacy D. Lynch, AAS, Office Technology, CT, Business; Logan J. Marsh, AA, General Studies; Stacey M. Morton, CT, Criminal Justice; and Toi Stewart, CT, Nursing.Snow Hill: Connor Bauer, CT, Criminal Justice; Miranda Desiree Carter, AAS, Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Management; Amber E. Dale, CT, Criminal Justice; Teasia P. Duncan, CT, Criminal Justice; Kristen Nicole Elzey, AAS, Occupational Therapy Assistant; Drew Elizabeth Harper, AS, Nursing; Eric Hunter, AA, Business; Yasmine R. Jenkins, AAS, Criminal Justice; Nikolas B. Johnson, AA, General Studies; Tiffany R. Mills, AAS, Chemical Dependency Counseling; Kayla Nicole Purnell, AAS, Criminal Justice; and Samantha L. P. Stewart, CT, Education.

Stockton: Skyler Lee Atkinson, AA, General Studies; Christina Burkhead, AAS, Radiologic Technology; Rachael M. Northam, CT, Criminal Justice; and Brock A. Payne, AS, STEM.

Whaleyville: Jane Claire Failla, AS, Nursing.

Continued 55

Deputy Cpl. Glenn Hilliard

Foundation kicks off renovation of residence in OC

(Sept. 23, 2022) A group of about 50 Home Depot volunteers from throughout Maryland and Delaware helped kick start a major renovation project of the Believe In Tomorrow Foundation’s recently-obtained 65th Street property in Ocean City.

When completed in 2023, this expansion will make this the largest pediatric respite property of its kind in the United States.

Believe In Tomorrow is a national leader in the area of pediatric respite and hospital housing services for critically ill children and their families.

“We are incredibly proud of our 31-year partnership with Home Depot,” said Brian Morrison, Believe In Tomorrow’s founder. “They have been involved in each of our 10 pediatric respite and hospital housing facilities throughout the Mid-Atlantic area.”In addition to volunteer help, Home Depot provided donations of some of the materials needed for the project.The65th Street property formerly known as the SeaBow Apartments, adjoins the Believe In Tomorrow Respite flagship facility, Believe In Tomorrow’s Children’s House By The Sea, located on 66th Street, which was constructed in 1999.

The new 65th Street property was obtained a year ago and has a large backyard space which will serve both facilities.Plans include creating a magical

recreational space for Believe In Tomorrow families in the back yard which will include relaxation and play areas.Many Ocean City businesses have been involved in the project to date.

Leading the efforts are Igor Conev and Mann Properties; Mike Reynolds and Northern Building Restoration; Kirk Parsons and Engineering and Technical Consultants, (ETC); Regan Smith of Moore Shockley and Harrison; Project Architect and Consultant-Designer Steven Cirile, LLC; Michael Thompson and Edison Electric; Russell Hammond of Russell T. Hammond Surveying; Robert Purcell

Church of Holy Spirit hosts annual uptown crab feast

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Church of the Holy Spirit on 100th Street in Ocean City will be having a fundraising crab feast on Sunday, Oct. 2 from 2-5 p.m.

Food will be served until 4:30 p.m.The dine-in menu will include crabs, fried chicken, corn on the cob, hush puppies, lemonade, iced tea, soda and desserts. Carry-out will also be available.

The carry-out meal will include six crabs, two pieces of chicken, corn on the cob, hush puppies, dessert and a drink.

Crabs are medium large/large and will come from Rippon’s Seafood. The chicken is being provided by Higgins Crab House.

In addition to the food, there will be a chance auction and a 50/50 drawing.

The cost for adults is $45; $20 for children ages 6-10, and children under 6 eat free.

Tickets are available by contacting the church office at 410-7231973 or by calling Monica at 443-235-8942. There will be a very limited number of tickets at the door, so pre-sales are strongly encouraged.Proceeds will benefit the Church of the Holy Spirit and its outreachRefundsprograms.willbe provided only in the event that the crab feast must be canceled. Guests should bring their own mallets.

and Beachwood Homes; and the local Chapter of Contractors For A Cause.

As the renovation progresses in the near future, Believe In Tomorrow will be actively looking for additional partners to join the team.

Believe In Tomorrow provided the first pediatric respite program in the country in 1986 in Ocean City. Since then, thousands of families with children being treated for cancer have

travelled to the beaches of Ocean City and Delaware to find healing and renewal by the sea.

Believe In Tomorrow now has respite and hospital facilities throughout the Mid-Atlantic and serves children being treated throughout the United States.

For more information, contact Morrison at bmorrison@believeintomorrow.org or 410-615-7690.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

A group of about 50 Home Depot volunteers from throughout Maryland and Delaware joined others to help kick start a major renovation project of the Believe In Tomorrow Foundation’s recently-obtained 65th Street property in Ocean City.

HAVE A TASTE

TRIBUTE PARADE

CHECK City

THANK YOU

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Motorcyclists ride down the Boardwalk on Sept. 11 near North Division Street as part of the Red Knights Motorcycle Club’s tribute parade.

GREG WEHNER/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Maureen Norwacyzk pours a sample during Wine on the Beach, which took place Sept. 9-10 at the Ocean City inlet parking lot and featured regional wineries including the Tipsy Teacher and Toasted Goat.

JACK CHAVEZ/OCEAN CITY TODAY

PHOTO COURTESY TOMMY VACH

Ocean City Surf Club President Tommy Vach and Vice President Rusty Ruszin recently presented Dunkin’ gift cards to three law enforcement agencies to thank them and show appreciation for keeping the community safe. Pictured, from left, Maryland State Police Berlin Barrack First Sgt. Jon Johnson, Starner. the donation check for $5,000 from Post 166 Chaplain, Ben Dawson, left,, and 2nd Vice Commander Bob Paul.

NEW PRESIDENT

Tim Lund, president of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City, left, recently turned the reins of guidance over to Bob Wolfing, incoming president. The Kiwanis Club meets on Wednesdays at 8 a.m. in the Ocean Pines Community Center at White Horse Park.

CHECK PRESENTATION

Trimper Rides recently accepted a check for $47,550 from Delmarva Power on Aug. 17, in front of its 110-year-old Herschell-Spillman Carousel. The carousel’s lights and other lighting throughout the park were recently upgraded to more energy efficient LED lights significantly reducing energy consumption by 523,232 kWh. As a commercial customer, Trimper Rides’ efforts to be more energy efficient made it eligible for the EmPOWER Maryland Incentive Program. Pictured, from left, are Jill Brady (e-marketing manager, Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce), Glenn Irwin (executive director, Ocean City Development Corporation), Edward Musz (Delmarva Power), MaryAnn Maganello (Ocean City Development Corporation), Isabella Shoji (operations manager, Trimper Rides), Debbie Haas (marketing and outreach, Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce) Jessica Bauer (director of marketing, Trimper Rides) Chris Fang-Brehm (ICF), and Scott Savage (president, Trimper Rides).

HELPING YOUTH

BOOK DONATION

PHOTO COURTESY D.J. LANDIS, SR.

PHOTO COURTESY ROGER PACELLA

TAKING OVER

Bill Hickey, outgoing Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club president, hands over the gavel to incoming president Christina Dolomount-Brown during the Sept. 1 meeting.

PHOTO COURTESY BUBBA ALMONY

Professional bodyguards, including Ocean City’s Bubba Almony, and other local leaders encouraged about a dozen youth with a message of hope and resiliency at Bodyguards Ending Bullying, late last month. The event started at the Ocean City Park and Ride, where youth involved with the Forge Youth and Family Academy in Pittsville provided meals for those less fortunate. The group then went to the Boardwalk, where they met with police officers and uniformed military members. The kids also took a ride on the Jolly Roger Amusement Park’s Ferris Wheel.

TheTHANKSlocalToys for Tots campaign recently presented a certificate of appreciation to the Pit & Pub in north Ocean City for its outstanding efforts during the 2021 campaign to collect toys for disadvantaged children who otherwise might not have had gifts during the Christmas season. Samantha Elam and Robert Geiger received the award from members of the First State Detachment, Marine Corps League, Frank Del Piano, Sharon Ruest, local Toys for Tots coordinator, and her husband, Ron. For more information on the 2022 Ocean View Delaware Toys for Tots campaign, visit www.ocean-view-de.toysfortots.org.

The Worcester County Garden Club recently hosted Story Time at all five Worcester County Library branches during which the National Garden Clubs, Inc. book, “Network with Nature,” was read to local children. Members also involved the children in a butterfly art activity. The books were presented in honor of honorary lifetime member Sue Hommel for her many years of dedicated service to the Worcester County Garden Club. Pictured, from left, are Worcester County Garden Club members Pat Arata and Christina Hulslander presenting the National Garden Clubs, Inc. book to Worcester County Library Youth Services Manager Sara Wheatley and Snow Hill branch librarian Rachel Jones.

Plan for concert focuses on traffic

No pressure, no pressure at all. That’s the situation Ocean City’s traffic planners wish they were in right now, as they finagle, refine and review how to get motorists in and out of town during the three-day Oceans Calling music festival.

Although City Hall released its traffic pattern blueprint Wednesday, chances are its logistics people will still be examining the plan for strengths and weaknesses right up until the first band strikes the first chord in the first concert of this magnitude that Ocean City has ever seen.

Although staging an event of this nature will require city government to supply other critical services — public safety and public works participation lead that list — traffic control has to be the most complicated.

This isn’t just because the festival is expected to draw some 40,000 people to the inlet parking lot where all the concert facilities will be located. No, it’s because those 40,000 concertgoers will be sharing the road with the 150,000 other visitors likely to be in town that weekend if the weather is decent.

Handling the ingress and egress requirements of the concert crowd will be difficult enough, but add to that the desire of all the other visitors and residents to travel wherever and whenever they want, and you’ve got a pretty big job on your hands.That’s why mapping routes and getting the timing right for concertgoers’ arrivals and departures has required so much attention and why the success of this venture will be measured not just by hotel occupancy rates but also by the response of residents and other visitors to the city’s ability to keep everythingGivenmoving.allthe effort the city staff has put into developing its traffic control strategy, it should be able to pull it off. In fact, we’re all betting on it to the extent that we expect next week’s festival to be just the first of many.

And, if things don’t go as smoothly as everyone wants, there’s a whole other year to get it right for the next time.

Ocean City Today

Ants: 2.5 million to 1

When the National Academy of Sciences announced this week that the world’s total ant population was 20 quadrillion, the first thing that came to my mind was who did this ant census and how did they get so much cooperation?

One would suppose that ants are less concerned about who might do what with their personal information, since they know they could have their way with us if they decided to break bad one day.

That’s correct, according to the way the population breaks down.

The academy’s research paper says there are about 2.5 million ants per person on the planet. In other words, it’s enough to warrant not making them all mad at once.

Imagine what would happen were that to occur.Knock, knock.

“Yes, who is it?”

“The “Whatants.”doyou want?”

“Just letting you know it’s your turn to live inside the walls, bozo boy, so start packing.”

Of course, that would never happen, since ants are known more for their strength

than their brains. Good thing too, since this has prevented them from taking over the world, or at least forming political parties and then throwing their collective weight around.Knock, knock.

“Yes, who is it?”

“The “Whatants.”doyou want?”

“Just letting you know we’ve decided that you need to change your party affiliation.”

“And if I refuse?”

“Does ‘2.5 million ants in your pants’ mean anything to you?”

The fact is, ants have been around much longer than humans, having crawled up out of the first hill somewhere about 150,000 million years ago.

We, on the other hand, stopped crawling and started walking about 200,000 years ago, meaning that ants have us beat on seniority alone.Again,

it’s a good thing their little insect brains don’t realize that, or we’d be in big trouble.Knock, knock

“Yes, who is it?”

“The “Whatants.”doyou want now?”

“Subscriptions to Senior Living.”

REPRINT

No public funding for sports complex

Editor,

I am opposed to the use of public funds to build and operate the Worcester County Sports Complex.

From its inception, I have seen flaws in the way this project unfolded and was approved by a slim majority of our county commissioners.

I have tried to pin our county officials down to a realistic cost of this project but without success. The bond bill is for However,$11,198,830.withinthe text of the bill are the figures of $14,560,000 and $15,584,381.Iwasinitially told by the county finance officer and the bond counsel that $15,584,381 was the total cost to

the county for the project; and yet, the commission president signed a contract to purchase the land for $7.15 million, raising the revised cost to over $20.3 million.

What is the real cost estimate? With the economy as it is today, is this the right time to be building a non-essential capital project?

I attempted to have a dollar figure put on the ballot question to give voters who might be unfamiliar with the project some idea of the cost but to no avail.The question of whether to vote For or Against the bond issuance for the Sports Complex will appear on the County ballot as Question A.

The condensed statement on the ballot question will read “The purpose of this question is to determine

whether the County Commissioners may finance a portion of the costs of designing and constructing a Worcester County Sports Complex by issuing a bond.”Whywas I denied this reasonable request?Thepublic hearing on the land acquisition and the Bond Bill was held on April 19 to gauge the public’s interest regarding the project.

Public notices announced that a hearing would be held on the “proposed purchase of property” and that a portion of the bond proceeds would fund

Yet,“acquisition”.thecommission president signed the contract of sale one day before the first public notice was printed and two weeks before the public hearing. Why?

We have also learned that not all the commissioners had a chance to see the contract before it was signed by the commission president. Why?

The Worcester County Sports Complex appeared in the capital im-

provement plan (CIP) for the very first time in the FY23-FY27 document.Ithas never appeared in any CIP going back as far as 2010, and yet it suddenly appeared in the current CIP, and it shows it as an FY23 project.Usually, capital projects appear on a CIP well in advance of their scheduled funding. This project has the appearance of coming out of nowhere.

According to an article in the Maryland Coast Dispatch dated Nov. 5, 2021, Commissioner [Chip] Bertino indicated that the sports complex and a public safety building “... hadn’t been reviewed or discussed by the commissioners prior to their inclusion in the CIP.” Why?

I urge all Worcester County voters to vote AGAINST the use of public funds for the construction and operation of a Sports Complex. Vote AGAINST Question A. Vincent dePaul Gisriel Jr. Ocean City

Third annual Marine Debris Plunder in Oct.

(Sept. 23, 2022) Boaters and land lubbers alike are encouraged to join the Maryland Coastal Bays Program on Sunday, Oct. 2, for the third annual Marine Debris Plunder.

Participants will pick up debris that has been discarded in the bays, on the beach and streets, then bring their loot to the West Ocean City Boat Ramp for a weigh-in.

Capt. Jack Sparrow along with his pirate crew will be on hand to assist with the weigh-in and will properly dispose the Volunteersdebris.canstart anytime. Organizers ask those interested to preregister for the event and pick up supplies in advance, then bring trash to the weigh-in between noon and 4 p.m.Register online at the Maryland

Coastal Bays Program website, www.mdcoastalbays.org, or call Sandi Smith at 410-213-2297, ext. 106 to sign up by phone.

There will be no registration at the event.Thanks to a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the support of Worcester County, Sandpiper Energy, Ron Jon Surf Shop, Seagull Disposal, Bluewater Properties and Pure Lure, supplies will be provided for those who preregister (while they last).

Supply packets can be picked up at Pure Lure in the West Ocean City Harbor at a pre-arranged date.

When participants bring their loot to the weigh-in, the pirate crew will grab their trash and present them with an event T-shirt (while supplies

First Ocean Pines weekend board meeting this Saturday

(Sept. 23, 2022) Meeting materials for the Sept. 24 regular OPA Board of Directors meeting are now available online.The meeting will be held as a hybrid of in-person and virtual, with seating available in the Assateague of the Ocean Pines Community Center. The meeting is scheduled to start at 9 a.m.

An informal meet-and-greet with the new board will be held before the meeting at 8:30 a.m. Coffee and pastries will be served.Tojoin remotely, use the Microsoft Teams

last).The intent of this event is to engage the community in picking up debris in waterways and streets and bringing it to one location where it will be weighed and disposed of properly.

All participants will be asked to fill out data sheets on the debris. This data will be used for an outreach campaign next year reminding visitors the importance of keeping waterways clean.

Worcester vet gets grant, trip to WWII museum in Louisiana

By Jack Chavez Staff Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) Lieutenant Dan is giving one Worcester County World War II veteran a leg to stand on. Morris Semiatin, 96, will receive $35,500 from the Gary Sinise Foundation, a charity and veterans service organization founded by the actor of the same name, who famously portrayed Lt. Dan Taylor in the 1994 feature film “Forrest Gump” (the character loses both legs from wounds suffered in Viet Nam).

“It floored me. I cried all day when I got that message (about the grant),” Morris Semiatin’s adult son Ben Semiatin said.

He said that the grant will be the largest that the foundation — itself the second largest veteran-support foundation in the United States — has ever given out, and it will cover the next six months of his father’s stay at Gull Creek Senior Living in Berlin.

That’s not all, either.

The foundation will send the Semiatin men on an all-expenses-paid, three-day trip to New Orleans to visit the National WWII Museum. They’ll fly out Tuesday from Salisbury and come back Thursday.

The trip will consist of a marine escort to the museum on Wednesday, including a VIP tour and a historian

who will conduct a video interview with Morris Semiatin for the museum. Ben Semiatin said he expects local media to be present and that Sinise himself has expressed interest in meeting his dad.

“If he shows up that’ll be incredible,” he said. “I’m just doing everything I can to make my dad happy each and every day. To have this trip it’ll be incredible. He’s looking forward to it.”

All of this is possible because the younger Semiatin, every few months or so, sends letters out to foundations all across the country, looking for help for his father. Care at assisted living homes easily ranges into thousands of dollars per month and as such, sometimes an outside helping hand can go a long way, he said.About four months ago, he reached out to the Sinise Foundation and they responded.

The trip is a function of the foundation’s Soaring Valor program, Ben Semiatin said

For the elder Semiatin, it’s the exhibits that deal with the Pacific Theater, in which his service occurred, that he’s looking forward to.

“I’m looking forward to the Iwo Jima section and meeting a lot of people,” he said.

MCBP Marine Debris Plunder returns first week of October

Continued Page 61

Boaters pursuing debris in the water will receive specific instructions as to what is marine debris and what is a live trap as crabbing season is in effect. It is illegal to tamper with any live traps.

Low tide for this day is around 7 a.m.The Natural Resource Police will be available in case participants have any questions as to what is marine debris, and what is not, in case something is unclear to a participant.

Boaters will be encouraged to pursue abandoned crab pots, derelict crab pots that have been clearly abandoned and are sitting in shallow water and marshes.

Every year crabbers lose their pots to careless boaters who do not pay attention and run over crab pot floats. Once these floats are cut, the pot becomes untraceable until it washes into shallow water or on top of a marsh.

Unfortunately, ghost pots continually re-bait as crabs crawl inside, eventually die, and new crabs arrive to eat

Thesethose.ghost pots also trap and kill pretty much anything that will try to climb in to retrieve a free meal, including terrapin, otter and fish.

For event specifics, visit www.mdcoastalbays.org or contact mcbp@mdcoastalbays.org.Protectingandconserving the waters and watershed of Maryland’s five coastalMARYLANDbays.

COASTAL BAYS

PROGRAM8219Stephen Decatur Highway Berlin, Maryland 21811 (410) 213-2297 - PHONE (410) 213-2574 – FAX

HYPERLINK “mailto:mcbp@mdcoastalbays.org” mcbp@mdcoastalbays.orgHYPERLINK “http://www.mdcoastalbays.org” www.mdcoastalbays.org.

PHOTO COURTESY BEN SEMIATIN

Ninety-six-year-old Worcester County resident and World War II veteran, Morris Semiatin, will be taking an all-expenses-paid trip to New Orleans to visit the National World War II Museum, thanks to the Gary Sinise Foundation, a military charity and veterans services nonprofit.

NavalII battle leaves American, Nazi boats sunk

By Sam Ghaleb Contributing Writer

(Sept. 23, 2022) This week, 80 years ago, the German armed auxiliary raider Steir was sunk in a battle with the American armed Liberty cargo ship Stephen Hopkins, which was also sunk during the gun battle.

To sink a commerce raider armed with six 5.9 inch guns, plus many other smaller caliber guns and torpedo tubes, was quite an achievement for a cargo ship, such as Stephen Hopkins, armed with a single 4-inch gun. The crew and officers of the German auxiliary raider were hand-picked and well-trained. The crew of the Stephen Hopkins were just merchant mariners, but also on board were 15 Navy armed guards commanded by a lieutenant that manned the 4-inch gun and the other machine guns.

During World War II the Kriegsmarine commissioned 10 merchantmen as auxiliary cruisers, which were also known as commerce raiders. Nine of these saw action in World War II, sinking or capturing 140 ships, totaling almost 1,000,000 tons. They accomplished this in less than three

Theyears.true value of these raiders was not only in the ships they sank or captured, but in the disruption they caused the Royal Navy by sending false signals of raider activity that forced the Royal Navy to chase ghost targets and spend precious fuel, and by mining the entrances to enemy ports.Stier

was classified as a light auxiliary cruiser and the last of her type to escape the blockaded Axis coastlines and gain access to the open seas and Atlantic shipping lanes. Stier was 4,778 gross registered tons, 439 feet long with a maximum speed to 14.5 knots, with a crew of 324.

Her armament included six 5.9inch guns, two 37mm antiaircraft guns, four 20mm antiaircraft guns, two 21-inch torpedo tubes, and she carried two Arado231 seaplanes. Stier’s major drawback was her low maximum speed and the ineffectiveness of her two small aircraft, which could only manage to fly in calm water

Horstconditions.Gerlach was appointed to command the Stier, the requisitioned merchant ship Schiff 23 undertaking picket duty in the Baltic in early 1941. New orders were received to convert the ship into an auxiliary cruiser and she was commissioned as Stier on on Nov. 11, 1941. She was named after the captain’s wife’s astrological sign Taurus (in German “bull” is Stier). The crew was young and inexperienced and there was little time for

work-up.OnMay

9, 1942, Stier left the Dutch port of Rotterdam in convoy with an escort of four large torpedo

boats and 16 gunboats. The darkened ships crept along the French coast but two hours after midnight they were discovered by patrolling Royal Navy Motor Torpedo Boats (MTBs) who called for reinforcements and gave their position to the heavy gun batteries above Dover that covered the gap to the coast of France.

The convoy had to contend with heavy fire from the 13.5-inch batteries and MTBs attacking from both sides with machine guns and torpedoes. Two of the escorts were sunk with considerable loss of life. One MTB was also sunk, but Stier escaped and made the fortified French port of Rouen at the mouth of the River Gironde to the north of Bordeaux. She sailed from there into the Atlantic on May 19, the last commerce raider to make this perilous voyage.

Because of her relatively slow speed, Stier needed to clear areas where convoys and escorts might be encountered so she entered the South Atlantic, where single Allied ships might still be found. The poor performance of her scouting seaplanes also limited her operational range.

To improve the chances of success, for a time she joined with another commerce raider, Michel. However, sightings were limited but after four months she could claim credit for having sunk three Allied ships, including a large American tanker, Stanvac Calcutta.Stier

was now prowling the infrequently travelled waters between Cape Town and South America, and had rendezvoused with her supply ship, Tannenfels, for provisions and to offload prisoners. On Sunday, Sept. 27, 1942, in calm seas covered by early morning fog, the two ships had stopped and were drifting with the opportunity taken to employ most of the ship’s company of Stier in cleaning marine growth from her waterline.Stephen

Hopkins was a first generation Liberty ship with an allwelded hull, built by Kaiser’s Richmond, California yard, and like many of her sisters was constructed on mass production lines at incredible speed. These relatively bulky general purpose freighters, of a simple British design with reciprocating engines from a past era, could be manufactured quickly and cheaply by largely unskilled labor.

With German submarines sinking Allied merchant ships at an alarming rate, it was necessary to supply new hulls fast or Britain would starve. It is perhaps coincidental that 2,710 Liberty ships were eventually built by United States shipyards, almost exactly the same number (2,780) of Allied and neutral merchant ships sunk by StephenU-boats. Hopkins of 8,000 gross

registered tons, was 442 feet long and her low-powered reciprocating steam engines gave a top speed of 11.5 knots. She had an armament of one 4-inch gun of WWI vintage at the stern, two 37 mm guns forward, and two 30 caliber machine guns on either side of the bridge.

Under the command of her master, Paul Buck, she had a crew of 41 men and a surprisingly large number of 15 naval armed guards commanded by Lt.(j.g.) Kenneth Willett, USNR. Her youngest crew member was 18-year-old engineering cadet Edwin O’Hara, who enjoyed volunteering to help with gun drills.

Her maiden voyage had taken her from San Francisco, with wartime supplies and troops for the U.S. supply base at Bora Bora in French Polynesia, then Wellington, New Zealand and Melbourne, Australia. She next proceeded to Port Lincoln, Australia, where she loaded grain for Durban, SouthHereAfrica.shetook on sugar for Cape Town and was now sailing in ballast to Dutch Guiana (now Suriname) in northeastern South America to load bauxite for New Orleans. After this her crew could expect some well-deserved leave.

At 0852 on Sunday, Sept. 27, 1942,

the fog lifted and the two German ships and the American ship sighted one another at about 4,000 yards. The Stephen Hopkins had been ordered to stop but thoughts of surrender were far from her captain’s mind.

Stier and Stephen Hopkins simultaneously cleared for action. The former was handicapped in recovering her crew, and wishing to escape, the latter put her stern toward the enemy, presenting a smaller target and bringing her main armament to

Edwin Joseph O'Hara

bear upon the enemy.

The first shots were from Stier’s secondary armament which raked Hopkins’s upper deck and critically wounded First Mate Richard Moczkowski. With the third salvo from Stier’s main armament she found the range and started to cause havoc. But Stier also received several well-directed hits from Stephen Hopkins, one to her steering gear and another to her engine room.

The forward gun crews on Stephen Hopkins also paid attention to Tannenfels, keeping her out of the action and causing slight damage. The main thrust of the action was from the 4inch gun, under the command of Cadet O’Hara, which managed to get away 35 rounds with an amazing success rate of 15 hitting their target.

Later this brought praise from the unfortunate Kaptain zur See, Gerlach, who thought he was dealing with another armed merchant cruiser. Toward the end of the action with the remainder of his gun’s crew lying dead or wounded, Cadet O’Hara fired the last shots alone. A few moments later he was killed by a nearby exploding shell.

The action continued for about an

hour until Stephen Hopkins slid below the waves, by which time all but 19 of her crew and naval gunners were dead. Lt. Willett, while severely wounded, remained on the bridge with the captain coordinating the overall return of fire. Kenneth Willet was last seen trying to cut away life rafts just before the ship sank.

The damage to Stier was severe with fire taking hold and, with the loss of all power, firefighting equipment was useless. Accordingly, the decision was made to scuttle the ship and transfer all survivors (two men had died in the battle) to Tannenfels.

On Nov. 2, 1942 they arrived at Le Verdon-sur-Mer, which is on the opposite side of the River Gironde, in France, from where they had set out less than six months before. Their reception was less than enthusiastic with a noticeable lack of medals.

Those who fell during the action included Capt. Buck, First Mate Moczkowski, Lt. Willett and Cadet O’Hara. The survivors managed to get away in the one remaining serviceableKnowingboat. that the prevailing current would take them toward South America, with great perseverance they proceeded on an 1,800 nautical

mile ordeal on a diet of mostly malted milk tablets. After 31 days the survivors, now down to 15 men, waded ashore near Barro de Itabapoana north of the then Brazilian capital of Rio de Janeiro on Oct. 28, 1942, to be eventually given a heroes’ welcome in New York before reuniting with their families.Thecaptain was honored when the Paul Buck was launched in 1985. Lt. Willett, likewise was honored with the launching of the Destroyer Kenneth M. Willett, by his mother, Mrs. D.C Willett, on March 7, 1944. Both were awarded the Merchant Marine Distinguished Service Medal, posthumously.Incomparison, all the German battleships, pocket battleships, and heavy cruisers managed to sink 63 allied merchant ships with tonnage of less than half a million tons. The investment that Germany put into converting merchant ships into auxiliary cruisers was one percent of the total spent to build these heavily armed warships. These armed auxiliary cruisers, which prowled the oceans like pirate fleet, were by far the best investment for Germany in World War

NextII. week: “The Star of Africa”

OBITUARIESMICHAELT.S.REILLY

Meadville/Berlin

Michael T.S. Reilly, 86, known for his perseverance and one-liners – and his love of family, cookies, chocolate, college football, coffee and dark beer –succumbed to Parkinson’s disease on Sept. 14, 2022.

He resided at Wesbury United Methodist Community in

Chester, Pennsylvania, with his aunts after Rosa’s unexpected death.

Through his teens, Michael enjoyed farm life, hard work, and sports.

He played football and lacrosse at Lafayette College and graduated in 1958 with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. He later earned his M.B.A. from Penn State.

He worked for various natural gas companies until retirement when he fulfilled his “dream job” as a bus driver for Ocean City, Maryland.

Michael reared his four children with the help of weary caregivers. He was a strong, supportive and faithfilled father. He also served as a father figure to many.

Preceding him in death were his wife, Adrienne; and daughters, Rose and Jill.

He is survived by immediate family: Sean (Sunny), Peg (Kevin), Ellen (Ernest), Giorgio, Scott (Maggie) and Dennis; and grandchildren, Bryant (Jenn), Courtney (Chris), Drew, Julianna, Owen and Grace; great-grandchildren, Andrew, Jaymee and Jaymes; and cousins, Kathy, Alice and Larry

(Sherry).Perseverance defined him, but his ability to listen and connect with others was remarkable, too.

He was lucid until the end even though Parkinson’s robbed his speech.

Michael donated his body.

A remembrance picnic is forthcoming, but Michael would like everyone to celebrate and not mourn, much like he lived his life.

Many thanks to the staff at College Way, Wesbury, for his care.

Don’t send flowers or donations, but reach out to an elderly person and spend some time with them.

Arrangements are under the direction of Waid-Coleman Funeral Home, 12422 Conneaut Lake Rd., Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania, where memories and condolences may be shared at www.waidcolemanfh.com.

OBITUARY NOTICES

Obituary Notices cost $50 per week for Print and Online Publications.

E-mail: editor@oceancitytoday.net

Mail: 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842

Fax: 410-723-6511

Michael Reilly

Sports Recreation

Handy to debut book this Saturday

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Sept. 23, 2022) When Al “Hondo” Handy retired from Ocean City Recreation and Parks in 2019 after nearly 40 years with the department, his goal was to write a book.

After a long process of re-writes and edits, the book titled, “Defying Expectations Family Sports & Recreation,” is complete and will be officially debuted on Saturday at Residence Inn by Marriott Ocean City, at 300 Seabay Lane, from 1-3 p.m. Doors open at noon.

“It almost describes my whole life –family, sports and recreation,” he said. “The book is about me growing up on the Eastern Shore and overcoming a few obstacles that I had to face.

“I always talk about how my mother grew up in basically the Jim Crow Era. Couldn’t go into restaurants, use public restrooms, even myself, when I grew up we had to go around the back of restaurants to order food,” he continued. “We didn’t have the greatest living conditions and a lot of times people equate your living conditions and where you come from to success. First, I wanted to prove them wrong about that.”

Books will be available for $25 on Saturday and Handy will sign copies.

“I’m excited. A little nervous. I’ve been doing a lot of promotion,” the 69-year-old said. “I’m happy with how

it turned out – the cover, the layout. I’m excited for people to read it.”

For those who can’t attend, purchase the book at said.butCity.”tolege.Decatur,Flowertheyfamily,onewantedaboutouslyaunts,mainlycomingthisandLeagueItOctober.zoncarriesShoppingperbackThebaby.com/book/defying-expectations.https://store.book-costis$24.99fora218-pagepa-and$9.99foraneBook.TheBuzzedWordintheFoodLionCenterat118thStreetalsothebook.ThebookwillbeavailableonAma-andBarnes&NoblewebsiteinReaderscanpre-ordernow.willsoonbeavailableattheArtofOceanCityon94thStreet,theGreeneTurtleon116thStreet.“Atthebeginning,Iwantedtowritebooktotellmyfamilymembersupalittlebitaboutme,butabouttheirfamily–alltheiruncles,grandmothers–obvi-astheyearsgoontheyforgetthesepeople,”Handysaid.“Itowritetwobooks.Myfirstwasaboutmegrowingup,mywhatfamilymeanttome,howmentoredme,thengoingfromStreetElementarytoStephenthentoSalisburyStateCol-Then,thesecondbookwasgoingbeallmyexperiencesinOceanHandywasaskedtocombinethem,saidthere’splentymoretowrite.“That’swhyit’s64chapters,”heOneofhisfavoritechaptersisabout

when he was asked to coach an all-star youth basketball team that lost by 100 points in one game.

“I always talk about the chapter and I tell people to Google ‘Give Hondo a Hand.’

5/give-drecbusiness.com/articles/2014/12/1(https://www.parksanтhondoу-a-hand-2). We played in the Salvation Army tournament and lost a game 108-8. It was so bad a story was written about it in a sports magazine,” Handy said. “We got on the bus and started leaving Salisbury and one kid says, ‘coach anybody ever lost by 100 points before?’ ‘No, I don’t think so,’ I said.

“All of a sudden, the kids said, ‘I think we broke a record.’ I said ‘yeah, you probably broke a record,’’ he continued. “They started singing ‘hey, we broke a record’ … This is what recreation is all about. You lose by 100 points and they’re singing. When the kids got off the bus they were all happy and singing and the parents said, ‘how’d you get those kids happy and singing?’ I said ‘they broke a record.’ That’s my favorite chapter.”

In the book he talks about attending Flower Street Elementary, an allBlack school. Then in sixth grade learning that in the next few years all of the schools in Worcester County were going to be integrated, he said. They had an option to go to Stephen Decatur, which was seventh through

Worcester golf team scores 149, new school record

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Worcester Prep golf team set a school record, shooting a 154 last week, then the Mallards topped that on Wednesday, scoring a 149 at GlenRiddle Golf Club in Berlin.“They were outstanding,” said Prep Coach Don McMullen. “This is the first time our top four golfers scored in the Sophomore30s.”captain Mike DePalma tallied a 35 and earned medalist honors. Also contributing to the victory was sophomore Aleksey Klimins (36), junior Vanesska Hall (39) and freshman Kain Crossett (39).

Gunston School finished runnerup with a 182. The Salisbury School shot a 239. Salisbury Christian only had two golfers participate.

“We’re very pleased with their accomplishments. They continue to put the work in that results in these low scores,” McMullen said. “Their practice rounds before matches continue to be very competitive.”

The next match is Thursday at Prospect Bay Country Club in Grasonville, Maryland, at 3:30 p.m.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Al “Hondo” Handy will debut his book, “Defying Expectations Family Sports & Recreation,” on Saturday at Residence Inn by Marriott Ocean City.

PHOTO COURTESY JIM MCKEE

The Worcester Prep golf team set a school record, shooting a 149 at GlenRiddle Golf Club in Berlin on Wednesday. Pictured, from left, are sophomore Aleksey Klimins, senior captain Harrison Humes, sophomore captain Mike DePalma, freshman Kain Crossett, sophomore Frank Miller and junior Vanesska Hall.

Handy to sign books at event

12th grade at the time, or Worcester High School in Newark.

“Myself and a few of my friends decided to go to Stephen Decatur. We were the only African-Americans that went there,” Handy said. “I think that some people weren’t sure we could compete in the school. We felt Flower Street had prepared us well.”

Handy also wanted to play basketball and accomplished his goal. He was a member of the 1970 Decatur state championship team.

Handy was also a four-sport athlete at Salisbury SportsmanshipState. is very important to Handy. The Ocean City Recreation and Parks Department renamed it annual sportsmanships awards after him.“I always tell people what I’d like to be remembered by in Ocean City is trying to promote sportsmanship,” he said. “I talk about the honor of having the sportsmanship award named after me.”He also discusses his motto, “If you think you can, you can.”

“That was told to me very early in life by my basketball coach, Ward Lambert,” the Berlin resident said.

He said he wants people to get two things out of reading his book.

“To realize – which I talk about a lot – the value of family, how important family is to you, it’s the backbone of your life really, and how important it was to me growing up. And also, you don’t have to go out and do things all by yourself, family is there to mentor you,” he said. “And also, for recreation professionals, to encourage them to share their stories about their life because I’m sure all of their participants would love to hear about their journeysHandytoo.”

also has a book signing planned for Saturday, Oct. 8 from 24 p.m. at the Art League of Ocean City. He will be at Harbor Day at the Docks festival at the West Ocean City harbor on Oct. 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Decaturcompetition. runners Justice and Marshall win XC races

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Stephen Decatur cross country teams hosted last Wednesday’s four-school meet in Berlin. The Lady Seahawks won their competition and the boys’ squad came in second place.

The Decatur girls’ teams scored 20 points in the victory. Leading the group was sophomore Amber Marshall, who crossed the finish line in first place (24 minutes).

“I thought I started out a little weak but then I usually gain my strength after a couple of the hills. I know how to push myself and use my arms and especially with my teammate Macy being on there it got a lot easier to get that strength,” Marshall said. “She helps me pace myself and then gets me to that point where it’s like I can push myself more.

“I think I did pretty good,” she continued. “I’m proud of the performance, especially because a lot of my family came out to support me.”

Decatur field hockey squad edges out Kent County, 2-0

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Stephen Decatur field hockey team won 2-0 over the Kent County Trojans in Worton, Maryland on Tuesday.

“We dominated for most of the game, but had a lot of misses when shooting,” said Decatur Coach Katie Griffin.Sophomore

Ryleigh Smith scored her first goal two minutes before halftime. She netted the second with four

minutes remaining in the game.

Decatur senior goalie Sarah Smith stopped two Kent County shots.“Happy to come home with a win after a slow start to the game. Long bus rides tend to do that,” Griffin said. “But I will say, we had some players come off the bench and give us some great performances.”

Decatur will travel to Princess Anne to play the Washington Jaguars on Tuesday at 5:30 p.m.

Junior Macy Woroniecki came in second place overall (24:12). Rounding out the top five Decatur finishers were: sophomore Clarice Piela (fifth, 28:05), senior Mackenzie Cathell (ninth, 30:09) and sophomore Alessandra Fernandez (10th, 31:05).“Iwas happy with how the girls performed. Most of our returning girls took time off of their hill times from last year,” said Decatur Coach Brenda Hommel. “We ran strong as a team earning the first and second place spots with Amber Marshall attacking the hills and Macy Woroniecki running consistent throughout the race. Every girl finishing the race refused to let the hills beat them and gained confidence in their abilities as runners.”

Parkside was runner-up with 41 points. The other schools had less than five runners and didn’t record a teamNorthscore.Dorchester won the boys’ competition, scoring 35 points. Decatur tallied 45 points, followed by James M. Bennett in third (58).

Decatur junior Ethan Justice crossed the finish line first overall (18:58).

“I usually just try to stay consistent and come out in the same pace and not try and kill myself in the first mile. I was definitely surprised to come in under 19 [minutes] since we made the course longer,” Justice said.

“I thought I did pretty good. I kind of struggling a little. Just up the hills kind of kills the legs. It’s a brutal course.”Also scoring for Decatur were: sophomore Liam Hughes (eighth, 22:21), junior Connor Smith (10th, 22:47), senior Evan Justice (12th, 23:07) and junior Graham Field (14th,“The23:11).boys’ team earned a disappointing second-place finish after beating the first-place team of North Dorchester the previous week. The North Dorchester team had new runners this week, but our boys’ team did not have the strongest showing,” Hommel said. “Ethan Justice lead the boys’ team in a time of 18:58 on a new, longer 5K course beating the second-place finisher by nearly two minutes.”Thenext meet is in Queen Anne’s County on Wednesday beginning at 4 p.m.“Both teams worked very hard on the hills over the last week and are becoming stronger runners with stronger mindsets,” Hommel said.

“We are feeling good about a positive outcome for both teams at our next meet.”

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The Stephen Decatur cross country teams hosted last Wednesday’s four-school meet in Berlin. The Lady Seahawks won their competition and the boys’ squad came in second place. Decatur sophomore Amber Marshall crossed the finish line first in the girls’ race and junior Ethan Justice won the boys’

Worcester Prep, Salisbury Christian finish in 3-3 tie

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Worcester Prep girls’ soccer team led 3-0 at halftime on Monday in Berlin, but their opponent, the Salisbury Christian Jaguars, battled back, tallying three goals in the second half. The game ended in a tie after two 10-minute overtime periods.

“It was a heartbreaker … But, both the coaches and players learned from this,” Prep Coach Carol Hartnett said. “It taught us were we need to put some personnel … where they work better on the field.”

Prep freshman Caitlin Shimko scored about 24 minutes before halftime. Sophomore Jayden Scopp made it 2-0 about four minutes later. Freshman Lilly Phillips provided the Mallards with a 3-0 advantage about five minutes before the break.

“We played great in the first half. I think they were a little stunned with freshmen and a sophomore scoring,” Hartnett

Salisburysaid.cut the lead to two five minutes into the second half. At the midway point, the Jaguars tallied their second goal. They tied it up with nine minutes remaining in the game.

Prep sophomore goalie Abigail Ament recorded seven saves.

“We shut down fairly well their most powerful players, then others stepped up,” Hartnett said. “We moved some personnel around. They made some adjustments but our backs got caught too far up and that happens with a young and inexperienced team. Our back line did a great job, we just dropped off a bit in the second half and gave them opportunities.”Hartnett is looking forward to Tuesday’s rematch with the Saints Peter and Paul Sabres in Easton at 4 p.m.

When the two teams met in the Sept. 8 season opener in Berlin, the Sabres edged out the Mallards, 3-2.

“It was our first game the first week of school. We’re a totally different team now. I feel like we outplayed them and won the 50/50 balls. I feel very confident against them,” Hartnett said. “We’re connecting passes, we have our layers and we have our shape. I feel pretty good as far as where we are in the conference, especially with 18 underclassmen.”

WP boys’ soccer team nets 6 goals in win over Salis.

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Worcester Prep boys’ soccer team scored one goal in the first half and five in the second to win 6-0 over the Salisbury Christian Jaguars on Monday in Salisbury.“We moved the ball quicker [in the second half]. More urgency,” said Prep Coach Jake Perry. “The team was more connected and we stopped shooting right at the goalie. I think we just wore them down.”

Prep junior captain Dylan McGovern put his team on the board in the firstFreshmanhalf. Ashton Browne and junior Hunter Simons tallied two goals each in the second half. Junior Cole Campbell also netted a shot in the second Sophomorehalf.goalie Dillon Scopp recorded two saves in goal for Worcester.“Ithought our buildup especially

Worcester Prep XC runners battle tough terrain at meet

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Worcester Prep cross country teams battled tough course conditions during last Thursday’s sixschool meet in Centreville, Maryland.

“The terrain was difficult with the kids saying at one point there was a steep incline. Some kids apparently went up it on all fours, but not any of our runners,” said Prep Coach Megan Leslie. “…[The terrain] was curvy, lots of roots, [and runners] had to jump a stream at one point.”

Worcester’s boys’ team came in second place overall with a score of 58. The top five finishers for the team were: senior captain Jason Todorov (fifth, 21:32.6), seniors Cooper Ludt (ninth, 22:24.7) and Riley Moyer (11th, 23:13.9), freshman Jake Timmons (16th, 24:10) and sopho-

more Jackson Fernley (17th, 24:15.2).

Gunston School won the competition, tallying 28 points. Salisbury School finished third behind Worcester with 77 points.Only four Lady Mallards finished the race so Worcester didn’t receive a team score. Five runners is considered a completeWorcester’steam. runners who crossed the finish line were: freshman Ayla Yonker (ninth, 28:13.2), senior captain Caitlyn Hoen (12th, 28:55.3), freshman Catherine Cullen (21st, 31:59.1) and sophomore Sydney Tingle (26th, 37:24.1).

Gunston won the competition, with 39 points. Salisbury School was second (40) and Delmarva Christian third (43).

The next meet is Thursday at 4 p.m. in Salisbury.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Worcester Prep freshman Caitlin Shimko plays the ball up the field during Monday’s game against Salisbury Christian in Berlin. She scored one goal in the 3-3 tie.

Prep volleyball team tops Salisbury

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Worcester Prep volleyball team battled with the Salisbury Christian Jaguars on Monday and pulled out a win, three games to two.“We didn’t make many mistakes, but we weren’t aggressive,” said Prep Coach Mike Kelley. “We weren’t scoring points. It was just get it over. We made it easy for them to come back and attack us.”

The visiting Lady Mallards edged

SD golfers ‘rise to every Stearmanchallenge,’says

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Stephen Decatur golf team racked up win number six last Thursday at Nutters Crossing Golf Club in Salisbury.

“It was a great win today and I continue to be impressed with this team and how they rise to every challenge and exceed my expectations,” Decatur Coach Dan Stearman said after the competition. “They are extremely focused on getting to our teamDecaturgoals.”scored a season-low 153. The Seahawks were led by co-medalists, junior captain Kole Kohut and sophomore Sam Boger, who both shot 37s. Also contributing to the victory was sophomore Clayton McCabe (39) and junior captain Evan Oglesby (40).Parkside came in second place with a 173. James M. Bennett took third in the nine-school match with a 174.Decatur finished runner-up in Tuesday’s nine-school competition at GlenRiddle Golf Club in Berlin.

“We didn’t play our best. We were a little inconsistent as a group, but Parkside was the better team and hopefully this match reminds them that the competition is tough and we need to play well every time out,” StearmanParksidesaid.won with a team score of 166. Decatur finished three strokes behind with a 169. Bennett came in third with a 194.

Scoring for Decatur were Kohut (39), McCabe (41), Boger (43) and Oglesby (46).

The next golf match is Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. at Ocean Resorts Gold Club in Berlin.

out the Jaguars, 25-23, in the first game.“We missed four of the first five serves. We gave them a head start,” Kelley said. “We were down 8-2 and came back to win.”

Worcester then came out on top, 25-15, in the second.

“The second set we won handily,” KelleySalisburysaid. took the third and fourth games, 25-22 and 27-25, respectively, to force a Scoringtiebreaker.wentback and forth in the fifth game, but the Prep squad prevailed, 16-14.

“I told the girls after, on a positive note, good teams win bad games,” Kelley said. “Monday on the road and

we survived it. It was a big conference win. It was an important win.”

Worcester was successful on 85 percent of its serves.

Junior captain Natasha Richter had four aces, three digs and two kills.Senior Haris Gjikuria chipped in with 15 kills and one ace. Junior Sara Freih tallied four aces and four kills.

“Now we control our own destiny for home-court advantage [in the playoffs],” Kelley said. “We’re 2-1 in the conference. If we win out and take care of business, no one can stop us from taking first place.”

Worcester will host the Saints Peter and Paul Sabres on Tuesday in Berlin at 4 p.m.

Mallards buildup in 2nd half key

Continued from Page 67

in the second half was good,” Perry said. “Good combinations in the middle and then getting the ball out wide for our wings to get in good crosses. Defense was finding our midfielders to build the Worcesterattack.”willhost the Cape Henlopen Vikings today, Friday, at 4 p.m. in Berlin.TheMallards will then take a trip to Georgetown, Delaware, to battle the Sussex Central Golden Knights on Tuesday at 4 p.m. Those who are unable to attend can watch the game live nel/UCndaMi4f2VN56fkxsDIkS8A.https://www.youtube.com/chan-at

Decatur volleyball team picks up two conference wins

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Stephen Decatur volleyball team picked up two wins over Bayside Conference opponents this week on its home court.

The Lady Seahawks hosted the James M. Bennett Clippers on Monday and were successful in three games – 25-22, 25-12 and 25-10.

The team had a great night. They kept the energy high and played up to their level the whole time,” said Decatur Coach Sara Patrick. “They were much smarter about moving the ball around and finding the holes on the court.“Iam proud of our senior leadership for keeping everyone focused and positive,” she continued. “I am excited about the momentum we are picking up as the season continues.”

Senior captain Cora Shaw had five aces, three kills, one assists and one

Lady Mallards win first two games, but lose third and 4th, take tiebreaker, 16-14

PHOTO COURTESY DAN STEARMAN

The Stephen Decatur golf team racked up win number six last Thursday at Nutters Crossing Golf Club in Salisbury. Pictured, from left, are junior captains Evan Oglesby and Kole Kohut, sophomores Sam Boger and Clayton McCabe and freshman Johnny Malinowski.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY

Stephen Decatur hosted the James M. Bennett Clippers on Monday and won in three games – 2522, 25-12 and 25-10. Pictured is senior Sydney Patrick who had three aces, five kills, two assists and one dig in the match.

Seahawks log two shutouts this wk.

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Sept. 23, 2022) The Stephen Decatur girls’ soccer team earned two shutouts this week.

The Lady Seahawks hosted the Kent Island Buccaneers on Monday and won, 3-0.

In the final seconds of the first half, senior captain Mia Kemp crossed the ball from the end line and senior co-captain Hannah Dang scored to put Decatur up 1-0.

Kemp was fouled in the box in the second half. Dang took the penalty shot and was successful.

Kemp netted the team’s third goal off a sophomore Payton Piercey pass. Decatur senior goalie Jessica Beck recorded six saves.

“Mia Kemp was a dominant player with a goal and assist and could have had three other assists. She also created the penalty kick,” said Decatur Coach Rich Venere. “Our center backs Payton and Riley Wilson are really starting to understand our defensive system that led to less errors and better Decaturdecisions.”traveled to Mardela Springs to battle the Mardela Warriors on Wednesday and came home with a 4-0 victory.

“Solid win. We need to do a better job finishing, but we are doing a great

job of creating goal-scoring opportunities,” Venere said.

Kemp scored two goals and junior Katelynn King tallied one goal and one assist. Junior Morgan Sullivan

chipped in with a goal.

Beck stopped five Mardela shots. Decatur will take a trip down the road on Monday to face the Snow Hill Eagles at 5:30 p.m.

Decatur’s duringleadershipseniorstrongmatches

dig. Senior Julia Carlson chipped in with eight aces, five assists and three digs.Senior Sydney Patrick added three aces, five kills, two assists and one dig. Senior Taya Price had two aces and five kills.

The Pocomoke Warriors came to Berlin on Wednesday. Decatur won the competition – 25-10, 25-13 and 25-5.Shaw had 11 aces and five kills. Price logged eight aces and two kills. Patrick contributed with eight aces and a

“Thekill.team played well. It was a struggle to keep the energy high, but they did a great job rallying each other and remaining in control of the tempo of the game,” Patrick said. “I am impressed with the leadership of the seniors this year. I am excited to see us continue to be successful and grow.”Decatur will travel to Hurlock, Maryland, to play the North Dorchester Eagles at 5 p.m.

Continued FILL

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY The Stephen Decatur girls’ soccer team shut out Kent Island on Monday, 3-0. Senior captain Mia Kemp jumps over the Kent Island goalie to avoid collision. She scored the team’s third goal. “Mia Kemp was a dominant player with a goal and assist and could have had three other assists,” Coach Rich Venere said. City Today .com