10/21/2022 Ocean City Today

SETTING SON

GOING TO STATES

Sunfest date change gets put to test

Moved to accommodate concert, annual event’s draw could be affected

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Oct. 21, 2022) Ocean City tourism officials will find out this weekend whether an attempt to extend and ramp up the shoulder season with the hype of a newly minted Sunfest will be a success.

Set for Oct. 20-23, this year’s annual end-of-summer event includes an array of changes, including all free concerts, a new setup for vendor tents, and incorporation with OCtoberfest and the mayor’s bike ride.

“Our team has been focused on maintaining the integrity of Sunfest, while also embracing the excitement of a few new twists,” Director of Tourism and Business Development Tom Perlozzo said in an email this week.

“Our entertainment, for example,

Hale Harrison played huge role in resort

into his seat at the end of the row of tables that separates the dining area from the counter.

By Stewart Dobson Editor

(Oct. 21, 2022) Hale Harrison, 75, of Ocean City died Monday of a massive heart attack just a few hours after observing his daily routine of breakfast with his morning crew at Layton’s Restaurant on 16th Street.

As happened almost every workday morning, he came in and settled

He ordered the inevitable Diet Coke and breakfast and then engaged in a random discussion of events and occurrences with his usual tablemates, George Harkins, Bill Purnell and Danny Sheppard.

For years, one of those seats would have been occupied by Harrison’s long-time closest friend, former City Councilman Jim Hall, whose passing in 2020 from lymphoma left a void in Harrison’s life that would never be

fully repaired, according to multiple accounts.

It was later that morning after breakfast, Harrison’s friends said, that he began to feel ill, so he went to his 34th Street townhouse only to feel progressively worse until he alerted his wife, Alberta, that he needed help. Shortly thereafter, he was in an ambulance on his way to the hospital.

The shock of his passing spread rapidly through the community not solely because it was so unexpected — he was a non-smoker and nondrinker who appeared to be in good

health to his friends — but also because of the huge role he played in the development of Ocean City as it is today and in the community overall.

Although he eschewed the trappings of wealth, preferring the attire of an auto parts store counter man, his friends and associates acknowledged that he was an exceptionally shrewd businessman and one of the smartest people they have ever known.

“I’ve known Hale since he was 9 years old. I was a senior in Stephen

Stephen Decatur sending five golfers to state championship tournament –

Harrisons built hospitality company into Worcester’s largest single employer

STEWART DOBSON/OCEAN CITY TODAY

condominium project by property owner Todd Ferrante,

Hale Harrison: intensely private, but deeply committed to resort

Continued from Page 1

Decatur High School,” Ocean City attorney and Berlin resident Joe Moore recalled this week.

Moore said he first encountered Hale when he and a group of friends gathered every Sunday night at the Harrison home in Berlin to listen and dance to Elvis Presley records.

In that weekly gathering was Hale’s older sister, Helen, and his cousin Linda Harrison (who went on to gain fame as an actress in movies — the “Planet of the Apes” series — and television).

Moore said the group would be immersed in the music, “when these two little rugrats (Hale and younger brother John) would come out” and start running around.

“Hale would say, ‘If you give us a quarter, we’ll go away.’ Sixty years later, I thought, ‘My God, they knew

how to make money when they were kids.”

Harrison’s full immersion in the hotel business began when he dropped out of the University of Maryland in 1969, his senior year, to return home to take over operations of Harrison Hall for his mother, Lois.

His father, G. Hale Harrison, a highly successful local peach producer and businessman, had built the hotel in 1951 as a gift to his wife.

But then, his father died in 1961 when Hale was 14 and that upheaval was followed in the spring by the near ruination of the property during the most destructive storm in Ocean City history: the calamitous March 1962 nor’easter.

Such was the damage and the cost of repairs to the hotel that Mrs. Harrison struggled to keep it open.

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SUBMITTED PHOTO

Hale Harrison, right, joins artist and sand scupltor Randy Hofman in an undated photo to build — what else? — a hotel on the beach in front of the Plim Plaza, where Hofman has been creating Biblical images since 1981.

Lawrence Michnick,

Christopher Takacs, DMD

Kristen Mazzei, DMD

Hale Harrison quietly changed Ocean City

As Harrison would later recall in the Ocean City Museum Society’s 1997 video documentary “Once Upon A Sand Dune,” the family was suddenly confronted with severe financial circumstances.

That battle to stay afloat exerted a toll on Mrs. Harrison’s health, leading Hale to leave school to run the business.

He righted that ship in quick order, and with his brother went on to build their company, beginning with their September 1970 purchase of what was then the Plimhimmon Hotel on the Boardwalk (renamed the Plim Plaza).

They acquired the property with a half-million-dollar, five-year loan from Calvin B. Taylor Bank. The local bank came through for the Harrisons after they were denied by 13 other instituions because Hale was just 22 and John was 21 at the time.

They built their first hotel, the Holiday Inn on 66th Street in 1980 and today, the Harrison Group, with its 19 properties, 16 of which are in Ocean City, is the largest private employer in Worcester County and Ocean City’s single largest property taxpayer.

But in addition to being a co-creator and owner of a major hotel/restaurant enterprise, Hale Harrison was deeply, if quietly, engaged in community and other business affairs.

He was an ardent supporter of Atlantic General Hospital from the beginning as a founding member of its board of trustees, and served as board chairman from 1998 to 2000.

Current hospital board chair Charlotte Cathell expressed the hospital organization’s sense of loss:

“A great void has been created by the loss of one of the early visionaries of Atlantic General Hospital,” she said on behalf of the board and Don Owrey, AGH President/CEO.

“Hale followed in his father’s footsteps, who in the mid-1940s started the movement to build a hospital in Worcester County, and in the latter ’80s and early ’90s worked along with a number of other community leaders and fought tirelessly to obtain the goal

of a local hospital.

“In the early years, Hale was a behindthe-scenes guy who would quietly use his influence and contacts with numerous local and State of Maryland business leaders and government leaders to garner support for the building and continuing operation of the hospital.”

Harrison also was one of the quieter directors on the Taylor Bank board, according to Moore, who became a director in 1976, a year after Harrison’s selection, and sat next to him for the ensuing 46 years.

“He never said much,” Moore said, unlike himself who admitted to having quite a bit to say on most subjects.

“Now and then, I’d hand him a note, ‘What do you think?’” he would ask. “More often than not, it would come back saying simply, ‘No.’”

Moore said Harrison’s opinion was so valued that he generally stopped talking at that point.

Bank President Raymond M. Thompson agreed.

"During his 47 years of service on our Board, Mr. Harrison was the bank's in-house expert on the Ocean City tourism industry. An outstanding business and civic leader, Mr. Harrison's sharp business acumen combined with his quiet way endeared him to all who knew him. We will miss his exceptional leadership as our Board Chair. He was extremely proud of our bank, and our bank employees."

Harrison also was proud of Ocean City Today’s accomplishments, despite the many times over the past 24 years that its coverage and editorial opinions either embarrassed or aggravated him.

Reflecting on that, he referred to it on more than one occasion as “the best worst investment I ever made.”

Despite many assertions to the contrary, Harrison maintained a hands-off policy with the paper after buying his shares in late 1993 for the sole purpose of protecting his friends, whose earlier investments were all but lost.

He also refused to buy a majority interest, in part because he wanted to establish some distance between himself and what the paper might say or do.

The paper’s most notable accom-

plishment in his mind, he once confided, was not what it said or did, but the number of jobs it created.

The reason so many people assumed Harrison involved himself in the paper’s coverage and opinion writing was because he was so embedded in community affairs, going back to his service on the City Council during the early 1980s and the notable events of that period in local government

As Mayor Rick Meehan said at the City Council meeting Monday night, “He served with Harry Kelly and he served during a very, very important time in our history and as Ocean City really started to grow and redevelop. And Hale was on the council when they made some very important decisions that impacted future generations, all of us, and continue to impact us.”

Perhaps the most consequential of these decisions was a palace coup of sorts in which Harrison and other since-departed council members — Granville Trimper, Guy Ayres, George Feehley, Lee Duggan, Thelma Conner and Bernard Deutch — stripped the town’s flamboyant and free-wheeling Mayor Harry Kelley of much of his authority and voted to institute the council/city manager form of government that remains in place today.

Prior to that locally momentous vote, the mayor ran Ocean City and, for all practical purposes, had sole possession of the city checkbook. But because of Kelley’s frequent impulsiveness and lack of accountability, the council had had enough.

Harrison also led the council’s push to establish legitimate oversight of the police department by creating the resort’s first police commission, and he encouraged the council to purchase what many people believed was a large piece of useless uptown property — it is now Northside Park.

Harrison did not run for re-election in 1982 but remained a major force in local politics throughout what only could be described as a politically turbulent and occasionally vicious time.

Following a particularly nasty episode that Harrison believed caused his family embarrassment, he filed suit against one of the antagonists.

When asked by a reporter why he was pursuing the litigation with such vigor, Harrison, who was intensely private about his personal life, revealed just how protective he was of those closest to him.

“Look,” he said. “You want to mess with me, that’s fine. I can take it. But if you mess with my family, I’m going to drop a nuclear bomb on your house.”

He also was fiercely loyal to his friends and, according to those who knew him well, exceptionally quiet about his generosity toward people, charities and causes that needed help.

Still, he was an inveterate teaser and mischief maker going back to his days with his childhood friend Geoff Robbins.

As Robbins recalled this week, the two of them would climb trees overlooking the yard at the jail in Berlin, and yell at the prisoners, “Hey! We’re springing you today!”

He could also take teasing, as undoubtedly happened as he grew older because of an incident that occurred at the time his brother was born.

Robbins, who was told the story by his father, Berlin’s doctor at the time, said his father was at the Harrison home helping to deliver John, when a great screaming and wailing came from Hale’s room.

They ran to see what was wrong and found that the family cat had crawled into Hale’s bed and was itself in the process of delivering four kittens. That story was repeated to him more than once.

The impact Harrison had on Ocean City overall, a local attorney observed Tuesday afternoon, would be impossible to quantify.

Susan Jones, executive director of the Ocean City Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association also said as much.

“The hospitality community is certainly in shock after learning of Hale’s sudden passing. Having been raised in a hospitality household, Hale was truly a forward thinker, an icon, setting the tone for Ocean City tourism. I remember how proud he was when we recognized his mother, Lois, as a “Steel Magnolia” as she truly was a Lady of Hospitality.

“Her Harrison Hall hotel was the first in Ocean City to have private bathrooms in every room; hospitality was certainly in his DNA. It is hard to imagine what Ocean City would be like without the drive, intelligence, and vision of Hale Harrison.”

But perhaps the only person who could truly sum up how strongly he believed in Ocean City and its people, his friends and foes included, was Hale Harrison himself.

In his final City Council session in October 1982, he addressed the room, according to meeting minutes kept in the Maryland Archives.

“This being my last public meeting, I would like to express the pleasure that has been mine and the honor to serve each and every one of my fellow citizens in this community,” he said.

“I'd also like to express my appreciation to every public official that I have served with and some that are not, of course, here with us tonight.

“And I would like the community and the Council and the City Manager to know that my time belongs to this community and if at any time in the future that I can be of help to this Council or community in any way, you all will have first claim on my time.

“I thank the people of the community for the confidence that they have shown in me and it is a richly rewarding experience to sit on this City Council and I very much appreciate the opportunity to serve you all. Thank you, very much.”

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This year, free entertainment

will be completely ‘free’ of charge and open air,” he continued. “We have added drone shows and a fireworks display. In addition, we have combined OCtoberfest activities and included Doc Dogs — a special opportunity to see a national dog jumping competition. In addition, there will be the Mayors bike ride, bike swap on Friday and more.”

The festivities also technically kicked off Wednesday with the opening of the Broadway musical “Chicago” at the Performing Arts Center and will close there on Sunday with “Artrageous.”

While the added events and other setup changes are significant, one of the biggest differences about this year’s Sunfest is the date. The officialunofficial end-of-summer hoorah at the Ocean City inlet took place on the second to last weekend in September for decades. The thought was to celebrate summer while it still felt like summer, when the nights were just starting to turn cool but the days were usually still warm enough to stroll

along the beach and boards in shorts and t-shirts.

Sunfest first launched in 1975 on Seventh Street with 11 vendors and a simple “end of summer” moniker. In 1977, the growing festival moved to the Trimper’s lot downtown, and in 1978 it officially became “Sunfest.” Three years later, it moved to the inlet, where it is held today, and welcomed 80,000 visitors. By 2019, more than 200,000 people were coming to Sunfest, which had solidified its spot on the city’s calendar on the second to last weekend in September.

In 2020, like nearly every other public gathering, the event took a hit with covid, as officials were forced to cancel it and take a year off. Last year, it took on a new, more expansive layout, and moved to the last week of September.

This year’s move to the end of October was spearheaded by the planned Oceans Calling Festival set for Sept. 30-Oct. 2 in the same area at the inlet. While the festival ended up getting canceled for weather, the plans were

Attendees of last year’s Sunfest walk through vendor tents set up in the inlet lot. This year’s event was pushed back to Oct. 20-23 and incorporates an array of changes and additions.

OCtoberfest, mayor’s bike ride, round out Sunfest ’22

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Oct. 21, 2022) Ocean City’s annual OCtoberfest festivities are fusing together and becoming part of Sunfest on its new date this year, serving as one of several changes that could set a platform for the future of the shoulder season.

“Sunfest is truly a celebration of the

fall season in Ocean City,” said Tom Perlozzo, the city’s director of tourism and business development, in an email this week of the events slated Oct. 2023 at the inlet.

“We are fortunate to have events that allow you to be outside, taking in the fresh ocean air and enjoying what is left of the beautiful fall weather,” he

City awaits reaction to Sunfest

already in place.

With OC BikeFest always set the third weekend in September, officials determined that the turnaround would be too short to tear down from the motorcycle event, set up and hold Sunfest, and prepare for Oceans Calling. And then with Fall Cruisin’ and other events set the beginning of October, the most logical choice was moving Sunfest to this weekend and tweaking the details to ensure it offers the best experience possible for attendees.

“Planning is ongoing and ever evolving,” Perlozzo said. “Our special events team has been busy working on the process since before the date

change and they have added value to an already great event. I believe our residents and visitors will be pleased with the value they experience, and so will our faithful vendors.”

Perlozzo added that officials are going to play close attention to the feedback received from this year’s event to determine whether the date will be permanent.

“We believe it will continue to be an evolution,” he said. “Special Events in general will receive annual reviews of dates, activities and impact on our community. It’s important that we look at all events and make sure they are serving our community the best way.”

Susan Jones, the executive director of the OC Hotel-Motel-Restaurant Association, said in an email this week that she has heard from some business owners about the date change, and that a few had concerns. For example, she said some smaller property owners without heat in the rooms said they would not be able to open because of the cooler weather. Others are short staffed. But overall, she expects the changes will have a positive impact.

“Given that Sunfest was originally created to expand the season, I think this date change will work well, especially given the expanded activities and inclusion with OCToberfest,” she

said.

Perlozzo echoed the comments, stating that change is not always easy, but overall, he has heard excitement about the future of the event.

“Sunfest has traditionally marked the end of the season with the beginning of our second season,” he said. “As we have processed through the years, it’s provided us with a new opportunity to expand things. The date change is a positive for Ocean City, as it is clear how much we have grown as a destination in our fall season.”

He added that Sunfest typically attracts more than 180,000 people for the duration of the event and he expects a similar crowd this year.

Crowds walk around a beach maze set up during last fall’s OCtoberfest near the inlet. This year’s festivities have been combined with Sunfest and set for Oct. 20-23.

continued. “Whether you like music, art, entertainment, animals, or craft beer – there really is something for everyone at Sunfest.”

The added elements mostly encompass what people have come to know and love about OCtoberfest, including a Halloween-themed beach maze, trunk or treat, pet parade, costumed “drive in disguise,” pumpkin race, and more. There will also be a beer garden hosted by Shore Craft Beer and Burley Oak Brewing Company, which will serve as a precursor to the annual Shore Craft Beer Festival the following weekend.

Sunfest overall will have live music,

which is all free this year, and open-air food and craft vendor tents spanning the inlet lot. The mayor’s bike ride, which is typically set for a different weekend, is slated to take place during Sunfest, along with several other bicycle-related activities.

Delmarva DockDogs will also host a dog-jumping competition to add to the array of other pet-friendly festivities at the event.

For more information, and to see the full schedule of OCtoberfest events, visit specialeventpro.com/oc-toberfest.

To learn more about Sunfest and to see a schedule for the event, visit ococean.com/events/sunfest.

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Council working on Boardwalk e-bike details

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Oct. 21, 2022) After some bickering over which class of electric bikes should and should not be rented in city limits, Ocean City Council members advanced two laws that will allow the lowest type of the zippy vehicles on the Boardwalk and crack down on all rowdy riders.

At a meeting Monday, council members voted to pass first readings of two mobility-related ordinances. One would allow Class 1 e-bikes on the Boardwalk when other bicycles are allowed in the off-season, prohibit Classes 2 and 3, and prohibit anyone from operating bicycles, e-bikes, pushcarts or other motorized devices in a “careless or imprudent manner.”

The measure includes a clause as well for law enforcement officials to report any issues with e-bikes to the council at the end of the season to determine if changes need made before the summer.

The other ordinance would permit the rental, sale or repair of Class 1 and 2 e-bikes and allow for the sale or repair of Class 3s but prohibit the rental of them across the resort.

Council members and members of the Police Commission and Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee developed the ordinances over the past

few weeks after learning that a law on the books prohibiting e-bikes on the Boardwalk may be in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The first two classes of electric bikes can reach a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour and the third tops out at 28. Officials pretty much agreed that class 3 e-bikes are too fast for the Boardwalk, but there were some contrasting opinions about the decision to ban the rental of them across the resort.

Council President Matt James pointed out that the ordinances as written are inconsistent because Class 2 e-bikes are not allowed on the Boardwalk, but can be rented in town, while Class 3s cannot.

“I don’t quite understand why if 2s aren’t allowed on the Boardwalk why we’re allowing 2s to be rented in town,” he said. “We’re not allowing 3s on the Boardwalk and the decision was not to allow them to be rented in town either.”

He said he would not vote against the ordinances as written to prevent hold-up of the process, but said he wants to revisit the language before final approval.

Councilman Tony DeLuca, who chairs the BPAC, agreed, and tried to tweak the second ordinance to also prohibit rental of Class 2 e-bikes in an effort to stay consistent. The motion did not get a second, though, and died

in exchange for the original proposal.

The discrepancy exists because staff initially suggested allowing both Class 1 and 2 e-bikes on the Boardwalk. But fearing issues with Class 2 bikes, council members opted to remove them.

The thought was that it would be easier to add provisions than to take them away after collecting data from the off season.

Councilman John Gehrig argued that restricting the rental of any class of e-bikes citywide is “a wild overreach” and questioned why the ban on the Boardwalk is not enough to ensure that Class 3 e-bikes are not ridden

there. He said that the ban could effectively hurt bike rental businesses.

“What else are we going to ban today?,” he quipped during the discussion.

City Manager Terry McGean reported that no business in town currently rents any type of e-bikes. He said one shop in West Ocean City, outside city limits, rents them and only has Class 2s.

The ordinances still need another vote to get on the books, and council members said there could be changes to some of the language before final approval.

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Bicyclists ride along the Boardwalk during a recent October afternoon. Class 1 electric bicycles could be joining regular cyclists like these on the boards if City Council members pass a pair of working ordinances.

Historic Majestic Hotel gets approval toward renovations

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Oct. 21, 2022) The new owner of the Majestic Hotel and Apartments is preparing to start renovations to the historic Boardwalk property.

In March, established resort business owner Avraham Sibony bought the property at 613 Atlantic Ave. between Sixth and Seventh streets from the Savage family, who owned and operated it for most of its nearly 100 years of existence.

According to the Maryland Department of Assessment and Taxation, Sibony paid more than $7.4 million for the land and existing hotel. Sibony is the owner of several Sunsations stores, the Taphouse restaurants and recently acquired the former Hatland store on 81st Street with plans to turn it into a Sugar Planet candy shop.

At a Board of Zoning Appeals meeting Oct. 13, members approved a request from Sibony to construct an enclosed space 10-feet into the required 32-foot setback from the Boardwalk.

Local attorney Joe Moore, who represented Sibony at the hearing, said the new owner plans to continue

operating the hotel but needs the extra 10 feet of space on the first-floor for renovations.

He and project architect Richard Schoellkopf pointed out that many of the surrounding buildings, and properties on other sections of the Boardwalk, encroach into the setback already, thus the request was not unique.

“The point that we’re making is our request is not an aberration of the area,” Moore said.

Planning and Development Director Bill Neville said staff members initially said the property could support the request, but could not make a recommendation because they did not have the proposed dimensions. By the time the request came before the BZA, the dimensions were set, and staff members recommended the plan’s approval.

The board members approved the request unanimously after confirming that the building will be kept a hotel and commending the amount of parking on the property.

The Majestic Hotel was built in 1925 and taken over by the Savage family in 1945. They owned and operated it until the sale earlier this year.

The Majestic Hotel on the Boardwalk between Sixth and Seventh streets sits vacant. The property was sold earlier this year and set for renovation.

Dogs still not permitted on Boardwalk during summer

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Oct. 21, 2022) A resident’s request to allow dogs on the Boardwalk during select hours in the summer was promptly shut down last week with concerns of safety and busyness.

Council President Matt James, who sits on the Police Commission, told members at a meeting on Oct. 19 that he recently received a call from a resident dog owner who asked if he could float the idea of allowing people to walk their pets on the Boardwalk from 2 a.m. to noon from Memorial Day to Labor Day, the same time that bikers, skaters and the like are permitted.

“She pointed out that people take their dogs on the Boardwalk anyway,” James said of the call. “And the only people that are following the rules are the locals.”

James added that the existing regulations, which prohibit dogs on the Boardwalk and beach at all times during the summer, are difficult to enforce, as many people claim their dogs are permitted service animals. James contended that he still believes dogs should stay off the beach, but advocated for them on the Boardwalk.

“I would be in favor of allowing dogs on the Boardwalk during bike hours, primarily so people can enjoy the Boardwalk and walk their animals there instead of the street,” he said.

Upon hearing James’ endorse-

ment for the change, Mayor Rick Meehan spoke up in disagreement.

“People are up there with dogs and they’re not service dogs and they’re breaking the law and they shouldn’t be there, so that’s not an excuse,” Meehan said.

He continued by explaining that the Boardwalk is busy enough as is, with bicycles, pedestrians, and — following approval of proposed ordinances — electric bikes. Adding dogs with leashes would simply exacerbate to the chaos, he said.

“I just caution you that that’s going to create more and more issues, because once it’s allowed all you have to do is go up to the Boardwalk Oct. 1 — and I’m not against dogs or animals — … [but] you see all of a sudden the amount of dogs up there. It’s just significant,” Meehan said. “And that’s good in that time of year. But to do that all summer long I just think that that could create some safety problems.”

Councilmen Lloyd Martin and Peter Buas, who also sit on the Police Commission, spoke in favor of Meehan’s position as well, thus squashing the request.

Dogs, bicycles and other mobile devices are allowed on the Boardwalk with no restrictions during the off season, from Labor Day to Memorial Day. People can also bring their dogs onto the beach during those times but as soon as the summer season begins the hours are restricted for bicycles and dogs are no longer allowed anywhere.

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Three people walk with a dog on the Boardwalk during a recent fall afternoon. Dogs are currently allowed on the beach and Boardwalk, but from Memorial Day to Labor Day they are prohibited, and will stay that way after members of the Police Commission opted not to recommend extending the permissions.

Council advances ordinance to add time to sign deadline

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Oct. 21, 2022) Property owners with signs encroaching into two major downtown rights-of-way are one council vote away from getting an extension to bring them up to code.

City Council members unanimously passed the first reading of an ordinance on Monday that tacks a year onto an original November deadline to move or bring to code all nonconforming signs in the 75 feet of space that legally belongs to the city on Baltimore and Philadelphia avenues from the inlet to 17th Street. The ordinance also requires staff to complete an inventory of affected signs and provide notification to property owners.

Six years ago, council members passed the original ordinance, which set a Nov. 18, 2022 deadline for compliance. At the time, only property owners from Third to 17th streets were notified.

Monday’s vote passed with no public discussion and stemmed from a consensus reached between council members and planning commissioners at a joint meeting on Sept. 27. The

second and final reading is set for a future date.

Zoning Administrator Kay Gordy said during the joint meeting that staff members had been in limbo waiting to find out how many of the properties were set to be released back to the owners as part of the planned Baltimore Avenue utility burying project between North Division and 15th streets. The thought was that staff did not want owners to replace signs that may need to be removed and re-erected anyway.

Glenn Irwin, the executive director of the Ocean City Development Corporation, also recommended the extension and after some discussion, council members agreed to grant it.

City Solicitor Heather Stansbury also said during last month’s meeting that property owners south of Third Street are part of the district as well, and suggested looping them in. As those owners have not been contacted before, council members agreed to notify them, along with reminding those who received notifications in 2016 that they all must get compliant within the next year.

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Signs greet motorists and pedestrias along Baltimore Avenue in downtown Ocean City.

GAVEL PASS

The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City’s year starts Oct. 1 and ends Sept. 30. On Sept. 28 at the last meeting for President Tim Lund, right, he passed the gavel to incoming President Bob Wolfing.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS, SR.

Resort police get incentives for working secondary hours

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Oct. 21, 2022) With more money and fewer restrictions, resort officials have taken steps to entice and encourage Ocean City Police to take on local secondary roles.

At a Police Commission meeting last week, Chief Ross Buzzurro told members that an order that maps out parameters for other businesses and contractors to hire city police officers for specific jobs was antiquated and in grave need of upgrades.

The proposed changes included raising the $40 an hour rate, which is low compared to the wages offered to state and county law enforcement, and striking language that exempts officers from working in only supervisory positions.

The order has not been updated since 2010 and commissioners agreed to forward a favorable recommendation for the changes to the City Council.

On Monday, City Council members passed the changes after some discussion.

Councilmen Mark Paddack and John Gehrig asked several questions about specific details before agreeing to approve the changes.

According to the staff report, an example of secondary employment is when a business or organization wants to hire an off-duty officer for security, such as for groups at the convention center, hotels and the like. Buzzurro said last week that 75 percent of the recent request for sedonary work have been filled by state troopers or county deputies, as they are offered higher wages than city officers.

By raising officers’ pay from $40 to $60 an hour, which is still slightly below other agencies, officials hoped to sway the pendulum back to the town to fill the positions. Buzzurro said the goal is to have local officers in place at those events.

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

A police car leads a group of motorcyclists down the Boardwalk during this year’s Red Knights Motorcycle Club tribute ceremony parade.

LAST RIDE

Resort reports lowest Sept. monthly crime stats in years

By Mallory Panuska Staff Writer

(Oct. 14, 2022) With the notorious pop-up car rally that used to wreak havoc across the resort moving primarily to New Jersey this year, Ocean City officials saw a noticeable drop last month in arrests and incidents.

Ocean City Police Chief Ross Buzzuro told members of the Police Commission last week that the overall number of calls for service, traffic stops, and related legal responses in September were “moving in the right direction.”

While he reported a slight jump in monthly officer calls for service from 2021 to 2022, citizen calls have been gradually declining since 2020. This September, 1,588 calls were recorded, down 212 from 1,800 last year. In 2020, Buzzurro said the number was even higher at 2,472.

He added that the top 25 calls for service are decreasing in nearly every facet.

The number of traffic stops reported this September was 883, down from 1,827 last year. Disorderly conduct calls dropped as well, from 427 last year to 185 this year.

The number of collisions went down from 139 to 159; suspicious person or activity calls dropped roughly 30 percent, from 133 last year to 92 this year; and domestic assault and dispute calls were down from 71 to 52.

“It’s been a pretty productive month for us in terms of calls for service,” Buzzurro said.

Uniform Crime Reporting, or UCR, statistics were also reported to the Federal Bureau of Investigation and show what Buzzurro said was one of the lowest September incident

totals in years.

Higher arrest and incident numbers were historically attributed to the pop-up tuner car drivers who regularly showed up in Ocean City the third weekend in September for years. The complete chaos of the unsanctioned motor event prompted officials to crack down on enforcement through the creation of a 30 mile-perhour special event zone and strict regulations for rowdy drivers. The efforts seemed to work, as most of the event attendees bypassed Ocean City this year in exchange for WildwoodNew Jersey.

According to reports from resort officials the event was just as unwelcome in Wildwood, but they were not prepared for the nuisance and have since reached out to Ocean City officials with advice to deter the disruptive car enthusiasts next year.

MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY

An Ocean City Police officer walks along the Boardwalk near North Division Street.

CHRISTINE BROWN/OCEAN CITY TODAY

A procession of volunteer firefighters drive through downtown Snow Hill Monday afternoon with the body of longtime Stockton Fire Chief Neil Payne. Payne passed away unexpectedly on Sunday. He was a member of the department for 36 years, 30 of which were spent as chief. The motorcade was headed back to Stockton from the medical examiner’s office in central Maryland. Dozens of companies from across the region participated in the procession in honor of Payne’s life, career and service to the community.

Newark man arrested and charged in county murder

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer

(Oct. 21, 2022) A Newark man was arrested Saturday in Worcester County in connection to a fatal shooting that took place the same day in his hometown.

Boris Wade Connor, 18, faces firstand second-degree murder, first- and second-degree assault, and gun-related charges.

According to a news release from the Maryland State Police, troopers and Worcester County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a shooting on Basket Switch Road in Newark around 12:20 p.m. Saturday.

When they arrived, police came across the body of Kamron Michael Lucas, 34, also of Newark.

The news release said investigators identified Connor as a suspect in

the case and believe he and Lucas, who knew each other, were involved in an argument.

Connor reportedly then pulled out a handgun, police said, and shot Lucas before fleeing the scene.

A trooper from the Maryland State Police Barrack and a Worcester County Sheriff’s Office deputy later spotted Lucas driving with another person.

Following a traffic stop, Lucas was arrested and seen by a Worcester County District Court Commissioner for an initial appearance.

He was then held in a Worcester County detention center awaiting a bond review by a Worcester County District court judge.

Following the arrest, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office requested that the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit lead the investigation.

The Worcester County Bureau of Investigation, the Office of the State Fire Marshall, the Maryland Natural Resources Police, and the Maryland State Police Crash Team also assisted with the investigation.

Boris Connor

Artrageous show coming to Performing Arts Center Sun.

(Oct. 21, 2022) On Sunday, Oct. 23 at 6 p.m., the Art League of Ocean City will bring Artrageous, a high-energy national touring stage show, to Ocean City at the Performing Arts Center.

Artrageous is an interactive art and music experience for all ages, combining the visual and performing arts with audience participation.

Tickets range from $25-$35, and are available at ArtLeagueofOceanCity.org, at the Ocean City Center for the Arts at 502 94th St., and also at the Ocean City Convention Center box office on 40th Street.

Sales benefit the programs of the Art League of Ocean City and also allow for free tickets for Worcester County teachers on Sunday, and a free performance on Monday, Oct. 24 for 1,200 Worcester County students.

The Humphreys Foundation and the Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club — along with support from T.E.A.M. Productions, the Town of Ocean City, and private donations — are funding the special free Monday show that the per-

formers will gear toward the school children.

Worcester County teachers have lesson plans they can use to prepare the students ahead of time for what they will see and how they will participate.

Artrageous previously performed in Ocean City and for the Worcester County schools in 2018 to a sold out crowd on Sunday night and a full house on Monday, and is performing an allnew show in 2022.

“This is the type of opportunity that can change kids’ lives,” Rina Thaler, executive director of the Art League, said. “When children are exposed to the arts at an early age, it opens up possibilities they may not have considered in their lives and gives them an outlet of selfexpression.”

Artrageous is a troupe of traveling actors and musicians from Vancouver, Canada who banded together in the 1980s to perform and see the world.

Starting with children’s puppetry theatre and rising from a fire that deSee ARTRAGEOUS Page 27

Making Strides run and walk Sat.

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Oct. 21, 2022) The 11th annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K fun run/walk, will take place this Saturday on the Ocean City Boardwalk.

The Making Strides Village will be set up on South First Street this year because of the Sunfest festival taking place in the inlet parking lot.

Check-in time is 7:30 a.m. Participants are encouraged to register in advance online in order to get a pass to park for free in any Ocean City mu-

nicipal lot or where there is a meter until 2 p.m.

Those who haven’t signed up online can do so the morning of the event. The run will start at 9 a.m., followed by the walk shortly after on the Boardwalk.

The event is free, but participants are encouraged to donate.

An opening ceremony will kick off around 8 a.m. DJ Rupe will provide the music, there will be coffee courtesy of Dunkin’ Donuts, and a giant pink inflatable chair to take photos on as well. Making Strides merchan-

dise will also be available.

There will be special activities for breast cancer survivors and a group photo will be taken before the race.

After the race, participants and spectators can enjoy ice cream provided by Dumsers with pink sprinkles.

For more information, visit https://secure.acsevents.org/site/ST R?pg=entry&fr_id=103094

“I’m excited because we have a lot of new teams this year,” said Mary Bellis, senior community developSee RUN Page 28

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, maintain your alignment with your dreams and tap into your warrior instinct if you come up against a significant obstacle later in the week.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, you’re naturally good at juggling many different tasks simultaneously. Don’t be surprised if someone recognizes this and give you a few projects to handle.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

The theme of this week is “opposites” for you, Gemini. If you’re a normally tidy person, you’ll leave a mess behind. If you are prompt, you will arrive late. It could be refreshing.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

This week there will be a great deal of pressure on you, Cancer. Try to remain as calm as possible while ticking off the boxes on your to-do list. Ask for help if you need it.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Your leadership skills will be on display this week, Leo. People at work and at home will call on you to make decisions and guide them ithrough various situations.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, this week you could come up with a new plan to make a big difference in the world. It may start with an assignment at work or be inspired by volunteering.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, try to learn as much about the people around you as possible. They may share strategies that can affect your life in many positive ways. Start asking the right questions.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

You may need to brush up on your charm skills, Scorpio. Sometimes you come at people at full force. You could benefit from employing a more slow and stready approach.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sometimes you can be naturally shy and quiet, Sagittarius. This week show others what lies beneath that quiet surface. Use your voice and get others excited about your thoughts.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Try not to hide in the shadows this week, Capricorn. This is your time to be in the spotlight and show others what you are made of. A spark will inspire you to act.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Getting back into the swing of things after time away can take a little while, Aquarius. You may have forgotten some steps or feel out of practice. Don’t be too hard on yourself.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

You’re used to dealing with situations as they arise, Pisces. Plan ahead for what you anticipate will come along this week.

The 11th annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K run/walk, will take place this Saturday on the Ocean City Boardwalk. The pre-event festivities will be held on South First Street this year.

Arts council invites creatives to fall exhibits

(Oct. 21, 2022) The Worcester County Arts Council invites all interested artists to participate in a juried art show: “Small Treasures” to be exhibited during the months of November and December at the Arts Council’s Gallery located at 6 Jefferson Street in Berlin.

This miniature art exhibition is open to established and emerging artists with work in all media.

All work must be original and completed within the last three years. Work must be delivered to the Arts Council between Oct. 26-28, 11 a.m.

CROSSWORD

to 2 p.m. to be accepted.

Artwork will be judged for the competition by local artist, Martha Graham.

Monetary prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third place during an open to the public reception on Nov. 11 from 5-7 p.m. Artwork will be available for purchase.

Guidelines for the competition are available on the Arts Council’s website: www.worcestercountyartscouncil.org.

For more information, call the Arts Council’s office at 410-641-0809 or

email curator@worcestercountyartscouncil.org.

The Worcester County Arts Council is a non-profit organization whose mission is to support, promote, and encourage visual, performing, and literary arts in Worcester County.

As designated by the Maryland State Arts Council County arts agency, the Worcester County Arts

Council is committed to fostering the excellence, diversity, and vitality of arts, artists, and arts organizations and increasing access to the arts for all members of our community.

The Worcester County Arts Council is funded by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council and supported by memberships, donations, and local sponsorships.

Artrageous show this Sunday

Continued from Page 25

stroyed their theater, the troupe has performed for the likes of Sir Richard Branson, Steve Forbes, and General Colin Powell, and in venues and events all over the world. A preview of the show is available at www.artrageousexperience.com.

As people who live and breathe the arts, creativity, community, and inspiration, the performers share their passion with the world in a show that focuses on art, music, theater, singing, dancing, and audience interaction, all on one stage.

Audience members will witness the creativity of an artist creating a masterpiece before their eyes in moments.

Combined with captivating vocals, intricate choreography, and exciting music, Artrageous takes their audiences on a visual journey to a gallery of finished paintings, culminating in the performers inviting the audience to come on stage and join in the artmaking.

The Ocean 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.

Run and walk Saturday

ment manager, Northeast Region, for the American Cancer Society Inc. “And, registration is ahead of last year, so I’m delighted.”

The event will take place rain or shine.

In 2021, about 700 people walked or ran in the Ocean City event and hundreds of spectators were also on hand to support breast cancer research and awareness.

The run/walk is just one of the events planned in October – Breast Cancer Awareness Month – as part of the “Pink Ribbon Classic at the Beach Series” to raise breast cancer awareness while garnering money for the American Cancer Society.

The series kicked off in August with the 28th annual Capt. Steve Harman Poor Girls Open, which drew 797 lady anglers fishing on 161 boats. Prize money distributed to the winners totaled $243,265.

In addition, a check for $100,000 was presented to the American Cancer Society.

Since 2005, the total donated to the American Cancer Society by the Harman family through the tournament and other events is over $1.8 million.

The next series event was Pickleball Round Robin, on Oct. 7. Nearly

NOW PLAYING

130 participated in the Pickleball event and more than $17,600 was raised for the American Cancer Society.

A Mah Jongg Tournament was held on Oct. 12. Seventy-two players helped raise about $3,750.

The Pamper Yourself for Charity Raffle is take place throughout the month of October at A Perfect Face Day Spa in West Ocean City.

Three prize packages will be up for grabs. Tickets cost $5 each or get six for $25. The drawing will be held Nov. 7.

The funds raised through all of the events will support the American Cancer Society’s breast cancer initiatives, which includes programs and services for breast cancer patients and survivors, information on prevention, screening, treatment and research.

“The Pink Ribbon Classic has an outstanding committee of volunteers,” Bellis said. “I’m privileged to have a great group to work with.”

To learn more about the American Cancer Society, visit www.cancer.org or call 1-800-227-2345.

In addition, Cancer Survivors Network, available at www.cancer.org, is a 24-hour-a-day cancer information center; and 1-800-227-2345 for patients to access ACS services.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Pumpkin spice French toast with pecan, bourbon syrup

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer

(Oct. 21, 2022) If the thought of luscious French toast triggers one to a state of delightful bliss, get ready for a mouthful of sweet inspirations.

Let me warn you, this is not your mama’s French toast. Brioche bread is dipped in pumpkin deliciousness and finished with a crunchy cornflake crust.

The piece de resistance is a fountain of warm pecan, bourbon syrup.

History is the foundation for the future. How did French toast get its name?

It is believed that French toast was invented by impoverished European cooks in the Middle Ages, who, in order to feed their families, moistened stale bread and fried it.

The modest dish gained popularity and became a staple in many countries.

The idea of fried bread worked its way to England in the 17th century before making its way across the

ocean to America by way of the early settlers. But that still does not answer how the popular breakfast meal got its name.

There is no clear-cut answer, but one convincing explanation is that French toast is the result of clever marketing.

Americans perceived French cooking as a fancier, more elevated style of cooking. Chefs called the dish “French” so a fancier price could also accompany the dish.

Whether one is making simple or decadent French toast, there are important steps to follow for a successful dish. Bread is the first and foremost consideration.

French toast is like bread pudding, it soaks up the custard for a creamy interior and slightly crunchy exterior.

Good quality bread with a dense crumb consistency such as challah, brioche, and Italian bread are the preferred choices.

But no matter what type of bread you choose, the moisture must be removed to achieve the pillowy interior that French toast is known for.

If your bread is fresh and not of the

See TASTY Page 29

ANGLER RESTAURANT

312 Talbot Street, Ocean City, Oct. 22: Chino Rankin, 5 p.m.

BAYVIEW BAR & GRILLE

2nd Floor Residence Inn

61st Street, Ocean City

410-723-2222 / www.ResidenceInnOC.com

Oct. 21: No Karaoke this week

Oct. 23: Bar BINGO, 6-8 p.m.

Oct. 26: Lime Green Duo, 6-9 p.m.

CAPTAIN’S TABLE

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

Every Friday: Phil Perdue on Piano, 5-9 p.m.

COCONUTS BEACH BAR & GRILL

In the Castle in the Sand Hotel 37th Street Oceanfront, Ocean City 410-289-6846 / www.castleinthesand.com

Oct. 21: The Dunehounds, 4-8 p.m.

Oct. 22: Endless Ember, noon to 3 p.m.; Colossal Fossil Sauce, 4-8 p.m.

Oct. 23: CLOSING PARTY 11 a.m. until; Aaron Howell Duo, noon to 3 p.m.; Monkee Paw, 4-8 p.m.

COINS

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

Oct. 22: Shortcut Sunny, 7 p.m.

OC EATERIES

12849 Ocean Gateway, West Ocean City

LIQUID A

443-252-3700 / www.oceateriesmaryland.com

Oct 21: Live Music w/Tyler & Brittany, 5-8 p.m.

Oct. 22: Live Music w/Joe Esham, 6-9 p.m.

Oct. 26: Trivia Night, 5:30 p.m.

Oct. 27: Karaoke w/DJ Kennedy, 6-10 p.m.

PICKLE’S PUB

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

Oct. 21: Beats by Styler, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Oct. 22: Rougue Citizens, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

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

Oct. 24: Karaoke w/Wood, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Oct. 25: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Oct. 26: Beats by Styler, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Oct. 27: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

SEACRETS

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

Oct. 21: John McNutt Duo, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Bobby-O, 6 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; DJ Tuff, 9 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; Liquid A, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Oct. 22: Plant Sale, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Starting Early, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Bobby-O, 6 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.; Billy Walton, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; The Malones, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Oct. 23: Plant Sale, 11 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.; Football Sunday, noon to 8 p.m.

Oct. 27: Full Circle Duo, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Connair, 9 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

SHENANIGAN’S IRISH PUB AND GRILLE

309 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City Oct. 21-22: Mike Brill, 8:30 p.m.

Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill: Fri., Oct. 21, 4-8 p.m.

Seacrets: Fri., Oct. 21., 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.

Tasty fall treat to try this year

desired texture, do not fret. Slice the bread and toast it for 6 minutes in a 300-degree oven.

The ideal thickness for a slice of French toast is ¾ of an inch. If the bread is very thin, it will be too flimsy to hold together when dipped in the egg mixture. If the bread is too thick, it will not cook all the way through.

Improper mixing of the egg yolks and egg whites can cause the French toast to taste eggy and yield a lumpy finish.

By mixing the eggs and dairy products in a blender, the egg mixture becomes silky smooth. More specifically, the blender incorporates air into the egg mixture for lighter consistency.

There is a fine line between perfection and mediocrity. Soaking the bread in a flat baking pan for 10 minutes per side ensures an even saturation and no sogginess.

When warming the pan for frying, add equal amounts of butter and canola oil. The butter gives the toast richness and the canola oil helps prevent the butter from burning.

If you are making a large order of French toast, the pan will accumulate little burnt bits. This is not conducive for an attractive and tasty finish, remove these unwanted particles with paper towels.

Always warm the syrup before serving. Warm syrup allows the flavors to come to the forefront and enhances the overall experience.

Pumpkin spice creamer fortified with pumpkin pie spice ensures pumpkin is the star of the dish.

Warm pecan, bourbon syrup adds a level of creativity and complexity. The bourbon is optional but pairs wonderfully with the sweet syrup.

Toasted pecans give the dish contrast in texture and add to the overall presentation.

The holiday season will be here before we know it. Pumpkin spice French toast with a warm pecan, bourbon syrup is a delicious dish that will spice up your day. Enjoy!

Pumpkin Spice French Toast with Warm Pecan, Bourbon Syrup

Pecan, Bourbon Syrup

2 cups favorite maple syrup

4 tablespoons bourbon splash of vanilla

¾ cup chopped toasted pecans

1. In a small saucepan, warm the syrup, bourbon, and vanilla over medium-low heat. Once the syrup is warm, add the pecans.

Pumpkin Spice French Toast

1 loaf dried challah bread, cut into ¾-inch slices

6 eggs

1 cup pumpkin spice creamer

½ cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon cinnamon

½ teaspoon pumpkin spice seasoning

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg ¼ teaspoon ground allspice 1 teaspoon vanilla pinch of salt

8 cups crushed corn flakes unsalted butter and canola oil for cooking the French toast powdered sugar as a garnish fresh mint as a garnish (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 250 degrees.

2. Place eggs, pumpkin spice creamer, heavy cream, cinnamon, pumpkin spice seasoning, nutmeg, allspice, vanilla, and salt in a blender.

Blend until fully incorporated.

3. Cut stale bread into ¾-inch slices. Place egg mixture in a sheet pan and soak individual slices for 10 minutes on each side.

4. Heat equal amounts of butter and canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

5. In a separate shallow pan, gently press French toast in crushed corn flakes until both sides of the bread are completely covered.

6. Fry until golden brown on both sides, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Place cooked French toast on a wire rack to keep warm in the oven while cooking

the rest of the French toast.

7. Place French toast on a serving plate. Top with warmed pecan, bourbon syrup and garnish with a sprinkling of powdered sugar and mint.

Secret Ingredient – Simplicity.

“Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simplest.”

– Albert Einstein

Partners sought for county’s Track or Treat

(Oct. 21, 2022) Area businesses are invited to partner with Worcester County Recreation & Parks (WCRP) for this year’s Track or Treat.

This safe trick or treating event will take place at the Worcester County Recreation Center in Snow Hill on Friday, Oct. 28, from 6-8 p.m.

“Our Track or Treat event is a great opportunity to get involved in the community,” WCRP Director Kelly Rados said. “Over 700 people attended last year, with families from all parts of the county, making this is a spooktacular opportunity for area entrepreneurs to meet area families, distribute fun treats, and

Dining Guide

■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$

■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted

■ 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, dinner and lite fare. Open Wednesday and Thursday, noon to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, noon to 10 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 9 p.m. Seafood is our specialty and great landlubber choices. Boat Bar Happy Hour is 3-6 p.m. Dine in or carry out available.

■ ANTHONY’S CARRYOUT

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

$$ | Sandwich shop, American restaurant

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner serving sub sandwiches, signature cheesesteaks, and chicken; Monday and Tuesday, closed; Wednesday and Thursday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Closing for the rest of the season, October 23.

■ 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

Visit Captain’s Table for seafood, steaks, lobster specials and martinis. Open for breakfast and dinner every day; Happy hour, seven days a week 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Breakfast, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Saturday and Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.; Dinner, Sunday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

■ CARUSO PIZZA & SUBS

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

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Casual dining for families. Crabcakes, seafood, steaks, specialty dishes and sandwiches. Happy Hour, Tuesday through Saturday, 2-5:30 p.m. Early bird Sunday and Tuesday through Friday, 2-5:30 p.m. Closed Mondays. Dine-in, Carry-Out & online ordering, www.coinspuboc.com

■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR

Oceanfront and 17th St. in Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, www.coralreefrestaurant.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore with a Caribbean flare; Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring specialty rums; Sunday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m to 9 p.m., Friday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Happy hour drink specials and $10 eats, Sunday through Thursday, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

■ DUMSER’S DAIRYLAND Caroline St, Wicomico St. & South Division St. on the boardwalk, Ocean City www.dumsersdairyland.com

Ice cream made daily. Stop by 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. Kids play area too. CLOSING PARTY Sunday, Oct. 23. 20% off check.

■ HARBOR WATCH

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

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

Fresh seafood, award-winning raw bar and certified angus beef. View of the Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Call for banquet information. Open Monday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, closed. Thursday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Closing for the rest of the season, October 23.

■ OCEAN BITES

401 S. Atlantic Ave next to Thrasher FF and 30th Street Coastal Hwy in the Jolly Roger’s parking lot, Ocean City Oceanbites.net

Kid’s menu. 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

introduce their businesses to area residents.”

Vendor space is free. WCRP staff will provide each vendor with one table and two chairs.

Vendors will provide candy to hand out to the participants. They may also decorate their tables and post or handout information about

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, ocpizzamambo.com

$$ | Kids’ menu

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

■ PURPLE MOOSE SALOON

108 S. Boardwalk between Caroline and Talbot streets

Full bar

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

■ SHENANIGANS

309 Atlantic Ave., 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 PALM

Located in The Hilton,32nd Street, Ocean City 410-289-2525, www.32palm.com

$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar

All day dining featuring breakfast, brunch, and dinner; Serving shareables, lighter fare, a wide selection of bourbons; Weekend brunch, Saturday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Happy hour, every day, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

■ COCONUT’S BEACH BAR & GRILL Castle in the Sand Hotel, 37th Street and the beach, Ocean City 410-289-6846, www.castleinthesand.com

$-$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Beachfront open-air dining. Grilled sandwiches, salads, appetizers, wraps, tacos, frozen drinks, beer and wine. CLOSING PARTY! Sunday, Oct. 23. 50% OFF ALL FOOD & DRINKS. Doors open at 11 a.m.

■ MARLIN MOON

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

$$

Open daily for breakfast, lite fare, and dinner; Happy hour, Monday through Saturday, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. featuring $10 appetizers, drink specials, and specialty oysters; Breakfast, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.; Lite fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

■ 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

their organizations and businesses.

For more information about becoming a vendor for this year’s Track or Treat, contact Tyler Keiser at 410632-2144, ext. 2505 or tkeiser@marylandscoast.org. Visit www.playmarylandscoast.org to learn about other special events happening in Worcester County.

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.

■ SEACRETS

49th Street, 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 island atmosphere. Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood.

UPTOWN

■ BAHAMAS’S CRABSHACK CARRYOUT & OUTLET

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

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.

■ 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.

■ SOPHIA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

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

$$ | Kids’ menu

Appetizers, salads, subs, soup of the day. Specialty pizzas, calzones and low-carb alternatives, Italian entrées. A la carte fresh vegetables, homemade desserts. Now serving breakfast 8 a.m. to noon. Call for takeout or delivery by Door Dash and Uber Eats.

WEST OCEAN

■ 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 EATERIES

12849 Ocean Gateway (Rt. 50), West Ocean City 443-252-3700, oceateriesmaryland.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.

Jo Ann Pullin earns Pine’eer Club crafter of month honors

(Oct. 21, 2022) The Pine’eer Craft Club of Ocean Pines has chosen Jo Ann Pullin as the October Crafter of the Month.

Pullin is the owner of NeiShell’s Coastal Crafts.

She has been collecting shells for most of her life, something special her dad and she enjoyed doing together.

She enjoys creating one-of-a-find pieces with treasured finds. With the help of her husband, Kevin, wood is cut to design and hardware is added.

If she is not on the beach or in the studio, she is making memories.

View Pullin’s 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.

Jo Ann Pullin

Ocean Pines resident Jo Ann Pullin earned the Pine’eer Club’s October Crafter of the Month award for her renowned seashell craftsmanship.

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., Oct. 21

SUNFEST

Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Arts, crafts, food and live entertainment under the big top tents. Also featuring activities on the beach including the Halloween Beach Maze. Admission is free. https://www.ococean.com/events/sunfest.

11TH ANNUAL O.C.TOBERFEST

Ocean City Beach - South End, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Featuring the Halloween Beach Maze. All O.C.Toberfest events are free.

https://specialeventpro.com/oc-toberfest, 410-798-6304

OUR AMAZING BUTTERFLIES!

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Learn about butterflies and make a special T-shirt craft. Presented by Jerry Schneider. For ages 6 years and older. Registration required: www.worcesterlibrary.org. 410-632-2600

MUSIC & MOVEMENT ‘JAMMIN’ W/MR. JAKE’

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. Join Mr. Jake and his guitar for some silly songs and a chance to dance out all those sillies. For ages 2-5 years. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

OCEAN CITY TRIBUTE FESTIVAL

Ocean City Fontainebleau Resort, 10100 Coastal Highway, 11 a.m. Tickets $139. Images of the King Preliminary, Round 1 begins at 11 a.m. “Kings and a Queen” Concert at 7 p.m. The Great ETA Auction Returns! at 10 p.m. Tickets: https://tributefestival.rocks/oceancity/.

HOBBIES CLUB ‘DIY PROJECTS’

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1 p.m. Make your own haunted house from recycled materials and simple craft supplies. For ages 6 years and older. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

BERLIN BOOK OF THE MONTH: ‘THIS IS HOW IT ALWAYS IS’ BY LAURIE KRANKEL Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Join the group for their monthly discussion. Books available at the branch. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-6322600

IN 3D!

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2:30 p.m. Enjoy a classic horror thriller starring Vincent Price in 3D. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

Sat., Oct. 22

SUNFEST

Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Arts, crafts, food and live entertainment under the big top tents. Also featuring activities on the beach including the Halloween Beach Maze. Admission is free.

https://www.ococean.com/events/sunfest.

11TH ANNUAL O.C.TOBERFEST

Ocean City Beach and BoardwalkSouth End, Ocean City, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Halloween Beach Maze (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), The Great Pumpkin Race (1 p.m., register at noon) and Trunk or Treat (4 p.m.). All O.C.Toberfest events are free. https://specialeventpro.com/oc-toberfest. 410-798-6304

BLOOD DRIVE

Blood Bank Of Delmarva, 32442 Royal Blvd. Clayton St., Dagsbor, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Bikers Without Borders Foundation and Blood Bank of Delmarva’s 2022 Blood Drive. Pre-registration encouraged. Food available for purchase, music and vendors on site. 443-953-0394, 888825-6638

11TH ANNUAL MAKING STRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER RUN/WALK

First Street & Boardwalk, Ocean City. Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m. with a 9 a.m. start. The run/walk will take place on the Boardwalk. https://secure.acsevents.org/site/STR?pg=entry&fr_id =103094

THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF BATS!

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m.

Learn about bats and how they are vital for maintaining a healthy environment. Includes a special T-shirt craft. For ages 6 years and older. Registration required: www.worcesterlibrary.org. 410-6322600

ASSATEAGUE ADVENTURES

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. A ranger-led adventure featuring crafts, puppets, stories, cool props and live ani-

mals from Assateague Island National Seashore. A different adventure each week. For all ages. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

CHURCH RUMMAGE SALE

First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City. 7 a.m.-1 p.m.

MAKE YOUR OWN WATERCOLOR POSTCARD WITH ARTIST JOANNE GUILFOIL Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., 11 a.m.-3 p.m. This dropin program will bring life and color to historic Ocean City line drawings. Free with paid admission. www.ocmuseum.org/history-month

PROJECT T(W)EEN ‘AUDIO RECORDING AND PODCASTING’

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Learn the basics of audio recording and podcasting, giving you the tools to help create your own. For ages 11 years and older. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410632-2600

OCEAN CITY TRIBUTE FESTIVAL

Ocean City Fontainebleau Resort, 10100 Coastal Highway, 11 a.m. Tickets $139. Images of the King Preliminary, Round 2 at 11 a.m. “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On!” Concert at 7 p.m. “Spooktacular” Halloween Costume Ball, 10 p.m. Tickets: https://tributefestival.rocks/oceancity/.

OUR HAUNTED POCOMOKE FOREST PROGRAM

Delmarva Discovery Museum, 2 Market St., Pocomoke City, 12:30 p.m. Having served as a hideout for many during the civil war it’s no wonder this forest is full of urban legends. Free with paid admission. https://www.delmarvadiscoverycenter.org/event

GAVIN KNUPP FOUNDATION #DOITFORGAVIN BENEFIT

Sinepuxent Brewing Company, 8816 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, 2-7 p.m. Featuring food, drinks, silent auction baskets, 50/50 raffle, costume contest, face painting, huge lawn games, a performance by Amberlina’s Adventure and music by Full Circle Duo. www.DoitforGavin.com

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.

Sun., Oct. 23

SUNFEST

Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Arts, crafts, food and live entertainment under the big top tents. Also featuring activities on the beach including the Halloween Beach Maze. Admission is free.

https://www.ococean.com/events/sunfest.

11TH ANNUAL O.C.TOBERFEST

Ocean City Beach and BoardwalkSouth End, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Halloween Beach Maze (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and the Howl-O-Ween Pet Parade (noon, registration begins at 11 a.m.). All O.C.Toberfest events are free.

https://specialeventpro.com/oc-toberfest. 410-798-6304

OCEAN CITY TRIBUTE FESTIVAL

Ocean City Fontainebleau Resort, 10100 Coastal Highway, 12 p.m. Tickets $139. Images of the King Preliminary, Final Round at noon. Wrap Party at 7 p.m in the Horizons Oceanfront Restaurant.

Tickets: https://tributefestival.rocks/ocean-city/.

OUR HAUNTED POCOMOKE FOREST PROGRAM

Delmarva Discovery Museum, 2 Market St., Pocomoke City, 12:30 p.m. Having served as a hideout for many during the civil war it’s no wonder this forest is full of urban legends. Free with paid admission. https://www.delmarvadiscoverycenter.org/event

ARTRAGEOUS: AN INTERACTIVE ART & MUSIC EXPERIENCE

Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 6 p.m. Combining the visual/performing arts with audience participation. Tickets range from $25-$35 and available at ArtLeagueofOceanCity.org, Art League of Ocean City and the convention center box office. 410-524-9433

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Mon., Oct. 24

PRESERVING THE PAST

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. A workshop on how to properly preserve and care for a personal photo collection. Free. Registration required: www.ocmuseum.org/history-month.

HISTORY OF OUR SURFMAN

Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., 1 p.m. Meet Keeper Allan and learn about life as an Ocean City

Storm Warrior. Free with paid admission. https://www.ocmuseum.org/history-month.

WRITING FOR WELLNESS

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

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY OF BERLINGROUP #169

Atlantic General Hospital - Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, 5-6:30 p.m. T.O.P.S. is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. 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, 302-2427062.

Tues., Oct. 25

STORY TIME ‘NOT SO SCARY STORIES’

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and finger-plays. A takehome activity will be included. For ages 2-5 years. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

HALLOWEEN PARTY

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Stories and games. Wear a costume for some Halloween fun. For ages 2-5 years. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-6322600

OC KNITTING GROUP

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

HISTORY & MYSTERY OF THE AMERICAN EEL

Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., 1 p.m. Delve into the mysterious life of eels. Tuesdays during October. Free with paid admission. https://www.ocmuseum.org/historymonth

TED TALK: CONVERSATIONS ABOUT RACE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Elena Coelho facilitates a few talks that look at race through art. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

DESIGN A MONSTER - ENGINEERING CHALLENGE

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 3:30 p.m. Can you create a monster that can stand on its own using limited materials? For

ages 8-12 years. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-6322600

BEACH HEROES-OC

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

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. 410289-4725

OC KNITTING CLUB

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

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

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

Wed., Oct. 26

BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP

Meets the third and fourth Wednesday of each month for surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatrics Center, 410641-9568

COSTUME STORY TIME ‘HALLOWEEN’

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Dress up and join us for stories, rhymes and games all about Halloween. For ages 2-5 years. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

PAGE TO SCREEN BOOK CLUB

Held via Zoom, 1 p.m. Join the group as they continue their discussion/reading of “Holes” by Louis Sachar. Recommended for ages 9-12 years. Books available at the library and Libby. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-6322600

STATION 4 HISTORIC TOUR

Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., 1 p.m. Walk through Ocean City’s once-active 1891 Life Saving Station and take a trip back through time. Wednesdays during October. Free with paid admission. https://www.oc-

museum.org/history-month.

COMMUNITY FLU VACCINE CLINIC

Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

FEEL-GOOD MOVIE

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Monthly movies that prove the human sprit can prevail despite overwhelming odds. Call for movie details at 410-2084014. www.worcesterlibrary.org

ART STUDIO ‘ACRYLIC VS. WATERCOLOR’

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 4 p.m. Explore the difference between watercolor and acrylic paints with fun, hands-on projects. For ages 8-17 years Registration required: www.worcesterlibrary.org. 410-632-2600

BALLOON FESTIVAL

The Albuquerque International Balloon Festival celebrates its 50th anniversary. Diane will attend and share its history and photos, 5:30 p.m. Registration required: www.worcesterlibrary.org. 410632-2600

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

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

Thurs., Oct. 27

RIGAMAJIG THURSDAYS

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Drop in any time during the day to use your imagination and build using the rigamajig STEM building kit. For ages 4 years and older. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

PLAY TIME

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Join the group for a variety of activities and toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 2-5 years. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-6322600

ROCK LEGENDS SERIES: THE BAND

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. View a 1978 film chronicling what was billed as The Band’s “farewell concert appearance” at San Francisco’s Hinterland Ballroom. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410-632-2600

YOGA FOR ALL

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 5:30 p.m. Erica Dennis uses props as power tools and posture variations suited to individual needs. Registration required: www.worcesterlibrary.org. 410-632-2600

TRIVIA WITH THE LIBRARY

Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st St., 2 p.m. Test your knowledge and win prizes. www.worcesterlibrary.org, 410632-2600

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

ONGOING EVENTS

ART EXHIBIT

Ocean Pines library, 11107 Cathell Road, until Jan. 31. Featuring 3-D framed pictures created mostly from vintage jewelry plus picture of crabs, birds and seascapes produced from products of the sea. 410-208-4014

GIFT CARD RAFFLE

The Church of the Holy Spirit is holding a raffle for three small artificial trees covered with gift cards. There are three trees worth $500, $300 and $200. Tickets cost $5 each or three for $10. The drawing will be held Dec. 4. Winners do not need to be present. Tickets: Monica, 443-235-8942.

FALL PHOTO OPPORTUNITY

Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum, located at the south end of the Boardwalk, 813 S. Atlantic Ave. During the month of October, grab a family photo in front of a display of fall flowers, pumpkins and a 2.5-ton anchor. www.ocmuseum.org/history-month

OCEAN PINES: AN ORAL HISTORY

Free, virtual event held during October. Go back in time with longtime residents and leaders and learn about Ocean Pines 50-plus years as a community. Visit oceanpines.org. www.ocmuseum.org/history-month

DELMARVA FOLKLORE, MYTHS & LEGENDS EXHIBITION

Delmarva Discovery Museum, 813 South Atlantic Ave., during October. Walk through the museum and discover the history and legends surrounding each of the museum’s creatures. Learn about the most famous legends of the region and journey to new and exciting places to explore on the shore. Fun for all ages. www.ocmuseum.org/history-month

Crossword answers from page 27

HANDICAP DRIVER

Salisbury area for medical attention.

Monday-Friday Call Wayne 410-726-5166

Cooks, Kitchen Help, Food Runners, Cleaning Person, Bartender Wanted

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

Contact Sam Wiley 443-235-0876

AUTOMOTIVE PARTS SALES ASSOCIATES

Busy Auto & Marine parts store with locations in Ocean Pines, Clarksville, and Long Neck,is now hiring for full and part times salespersons.

Experience a plus but will train the right person.Great Pay & Benefits. Call Joel – 302-344-9769

CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY JUDICIAL ASSISTANT FOR THE FAMILY SERVICES DIVISION

Full-Time Position Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Application Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Starting Salary Range: $38,646 to $42,702 annually (Starting salary may be higher depending on experience)

Join a high-performing, collegial team working for the families of Worcester County. Provide legal administrative support and customer service for the Magistrate and the Family Services Division of the Circuit Court. The use of independent judgment, discretion and strong organizational, communication, technical and interpersonal skills are required.

Apply through the Worcester County Human Resources Department: https://worcesterhr.co.worcester.md.us/

New Family Hair Salon opening in West Ocean City. We are looking for a talented Hair Stylist, a creative Nail Technician and an experienced Esthetician. Must be Maryland licensed. Interested? Call 443-880-6950.

Pool - General Maintenance. Outdoor work, lifting heavy objects. Mechanical, basic pool pump & motors, CPO a plus / not required. Able to pass CPO test. Summer includes weekends & long hours; working alone or with others. 410-289-4902 ask for Suzanne.

Boat Yard Help Wanted for Powerwashing and ShrinkWrapping Boats. Call Harbor Marine @ 410-213-2296.

RENTALS

Year-Round Rental in Ocean Pines. 3-bedroom, 2-bath. $2,200 a month plus utilities. No pets. Call Karen 443880-5727.

Seeking Female Roommate in West OC for Single Family House. Winter rental. Oct. 1April 1. $500/mo. Includes utilities. 443-373-1319

ROOMMATE NEEDED 1BR. 94th St. Bayside. Nonsmoker. Must love dogs. $200/week plus utilities. Year round or Winter rental negotiable. Hot tub access. Text 410-726-5200 difficult to answer calls.

Crew

Hiring Cooks, Audio/Video Techs, Maintenance Staff, Painters & Carpenters

Apply in person or online at seacrets.com

AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIANS

GREAT-GREAT-GREAT OPPORTUNITIES!!!!

Winter Rental in NOC. Beautiful 2BR, 2BA Condo, W/D, DW. $1000/mo. + 1st month security. Utilities/cable included. No pets/smoking. Avail. Nov. 27 - April 27. 717816-1790

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

COMMERCIAL

2 Office/Retail Spaces available in West Ocean City. Each are approximately 1600 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT:

Looking for space, comfort, and great views?

Participating in the Town of Berlin YARD SALE

404 West Street. Sat., Oct. 22, 7:30am.

Antiques, collectables, seasonal & household items.

HUGE YARD SALE THIS SAT., OCT. 22; South Gate, Ocean Pines, Johnnys Pizza. 11017 Manklin Meadows Lane, Berlin, MD 21811. 7am-1pm. Spaces available. Call John, 443-880-2486.

Fri., Oct. 21 & Sat., Oct. 22, 8am-2pm. 57 Wood Duck Drive, Ocean Pines. Miscellaneous items for sale.

The contents of mini storage units will be sold online at Lockerfox.com. Ocean City Mini Storage. Units to be auctioned; B28B64-B57-B71-S35-S718S136-S185. Units are being sold due to non-payment of rent. Common items in units are, household items, furniture, tools, fishing equipment, paintings, antique and vintage items.

Date: Friday, October 28th, 2022

Time: 10:00 am

This will be an online auction. Please go to Lockerfox.com and register.

Feel free to call 410-2132029 for any questions regarding the online auction.

ABC is looking for responsible individuals to work in its new package store. TAM certification a plus. FT/YR. Apply online at seacrets.com or call Ron @ 410-524-2221

Full Service automotive center, now has openings for Technicians. Must be dependable. Fast paced, energetic atmosphere with advancement opportunities!

Call Matt – 302-344-9846

Exc. Pay & Benefits !! Locations in Long Neck, Ocean View & Ocean Pines

CUSTODIAL STAFF

We are currently looking for Part Time Custodial Employees Hours are 3:30pm-6:30pm, Monday through Friday. Apply to Linda Watson at lwatson@worcesterprep.org or mail application to Linda Watson, 508 S. Main St., Berlin, MD 21811.

Yearly & Seasonal Rentals

We Welcome Pets 7700 Coastal Hwy 410-524-7700 www.holidayoc.com

Winter Rentals Weekly/Monthly

Available November 1st to March 31st. 1BR, 1BA $800 monthly/ $300 weekly. 3BR, 2BA $1200 monthly/ $500 weekly. All utilities included, including cable and WI-FI. Pets welcome. Call Gary or Meghan 410-289-9103

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.

MARYLAND STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK

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 Supply (www.fleabeacon.com)

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

CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK

FOR SALE

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

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. 888-491-4534

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES

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

SERVICES

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

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON

5934 TAYLOR LANDING RD. GIRDLETREE, MD 21829

Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated October 18, 2012, recorded in Liber 6021, Folio 329 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $300,000.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on

NOVEMBER 1, 2022 AT 4:05 PM

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

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

Terms of Sale: A deposit of $14,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due to the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit.

All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale.

The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the

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 Oct 13, 2022.

Line No Year Make Model Color Style

VIN Mileage 0639-22 1997 FORD ESCORT GRAY 4W

3FALP15P6VR163480 NA 0645-22 2009 INFINITY G37

GRAY SEDAN JNKCV61F79M364442 NA 0804-22 2001 ACURA MDX GRAY SUV 2HNYD18401H539360 NA 0822-22 1989 CHEVY S10 WHITE TK 1GCBS14E7K2124515 NA 0827-22 UTILITY TRAILER SILVER NA 0844-22 2020 KIA OPTIMA WHITE SEDAN 5XXGT4L3XLG430723 NA 0875-22 1997 SUZUKI GS500E BLUE MOTORCYCLE JS1GM51A1V2100671 NA 0917-22 2009 CHEVY CRUZE WHITE SUV 1G1ZH57B694173217

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

AUTH: Ross Buzzuro Chief of Police

loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest.

BIDDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO FOLLOW CDC GUIDANCE AND WEAR A COVER OVER BOTH NOSE AND MOUTH AND PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING AT THE AUCTION. (Matter No. 353653-1)

PLEASE CONSULT WWW.ALEXCOOPER.COM FOR STATUS OF UPCOMING SALES Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19399 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM L. SHOWELL

Notice is given that Isaiah Showell, 6096 Setters Court, Salisbury, Md 21801, was on September 26, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William L. Showell who died on September 2, 2022, with a will.

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

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 26th day of March, 2023.

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

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

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

OCD-10/13/3t

forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills.

Isaiah Showell Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: October 06, 2022 OCD-10/6/3t

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Zoning Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted by the Board of Zoning Appeals for Ocean City, Maryland in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on:

October 27, 2022 at 6:00 PM

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

the provisions of Section 110-94(2)(b) requesting a special parking exception to waive two (2) parking spaces of the required ten (10) spaces providing eight (8) parking spaces on site; and also pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-94(2)(b) requesting a special parking exception to design standards to allow the eight (8) existing parking spaces be 9’x18’ in size. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 242, Section 1, of the Caine Harbor Mile Plat, further described as located on the northwest corner of Coastal Highway and Newport Bay Drive, and known locally as 11651 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: DAVE EYNON –(BZA 2633 #22-09400017)

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

Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-10/13/2t

KRISTEN EDDINS VS. JAMES EDDINS

CIRCUIT COURT FOR FREDERICK COUNTY, MARYLAND

Case Number: C-10-FM-19-002055

NOTICE OF SALE

Notice is hereby issued by the Circuit Court for Frederick County this 5th day of October, 2022 that the sale made and recorded by Marshall Horman, Esq. for the sale of the property described in these proceedings

4201 Coastal Highway, Unit 608, Ocean City, Maryland 21842

be ratified and confirmed thirty (30) days from the date of this Notice, unless cause to the contrary be shown, provided a copy of this Notice be inserted in some Newspaper published in this County, once in each of three (3) successive weeks.

The report states the amount of the sale to be $386,000.00.

Sandra K. Dalton Clerk of the Circuit Court OCD-10/13/3t

CHRISTOPHER T. WOODLEY, ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19409

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF HAMDI MAHMOUD SALEM

Notice is given that Maath Hamdi Salem, 9313 Ten Point Court, Berlin, MD 21811, was on October 07, 2022 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Hamdi Mahmoud Salem, who died on March 26, 2021, without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 7th day of April 2023.

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

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

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

Maath Hamdi Salem Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County

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

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative:

Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: October 13, 2022

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland BID SOLICITATION Eagles Landing Golf Course Exterior Improvements

Mayor & City Council Ocean City, Maryland (“Town”) is seeking bids from qualified and experienced vendors to provide Eagles Landing Golf Course Exterior Improvements in conformity with the specifications detailed in the Bid Documents.

Bid Documents for the Eagles Landing Golf Course Exterior Improvements may be obtained from the Town’s Procurement Department by either e-mailing the Procurement Manager, Scott Wagner, at swagner@oceancitymd.gov or by calling 410-723-6647 during normal business hours, or via the Solicitations tab on the Town’s (https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/procurement-bids/ ) website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. The Town is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third-party service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents.

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

OCD-10/13/3t

A pre-bid meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 25, 2022 at 11:00 a.m., located at 12367 Eagles Nest Road, Berlin, MD, 21811 for any questions concerning the Bid Documents. The last day for questions will be on Tuesday, November 1, 2022 at 3 PM. Addendum will be posted by close of business on Friday, November 4, 2022.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS AND APPEALS

TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 2 Administration, Article IV, Division 5 of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland hereinafter referred to as Code, same being the Board of Adjustments and Appeals Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearing will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland.

Wednesday, November 2, 2022 At 3:00 PM

BAAV 22-119 Seeking variance from Code Sec. 10-37 (R313.2 of 2018 IRC) that requires automatic fire sprinklers to be installed in a relocated dwelling. The scope of work is to move an existing dwelling to a different lot. Locally known as 315 S HERON GULL CT parcel number 6071A-97

APPLICANT: Keith Coffin

TOWN OF BERLIN NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING FOR ORDINANCE 2022-07 APPROVING THE AMENDEMENTS TO CHAPTER 2 – ADMINISTRATION, ARTICLE II ETHICS PROVISIONS

The Mayor and Council of the Town of Berlin will hold a first reading on Monday, October 24, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. and hold a public hearing on Monday, November 14, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in the Berlin Town Hall Council Chambers, 10 William Street, on Ordinance 2022-07. A copy of the proposed Ordinance will be available in the Mayor and Council Packet on the Town website, www.berlinmd.gov or can be emailed or mailed to you upon request, please call 410-641-2770 or email info@berlinmd.gov to request a copy for inspection.

Ordinance 2022-07

An Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of The Town of Berlin, Maryland approving the amendments to Chapter 2 – Administration, Article II Ethics Provisions

OCD-10/20/2t

Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than Monday, November 14, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. shall be sent to Procurement Office, 214 65th Street, Ocean City, MD, 21842. Completed Bid Documents will be opened, read into record and then remanded to staff for further review on Tuesday, November 15, 2022 at 9:00 AM located at Procurement Office, 214 65th Street, Ocean City, MD, 21842

Late Bid Documents will not be accepted.

BAAV 22-120 – Seeking a variance from all freeboard elevation requirements of Ocean City Town Code, 38-71 (a)(5), which requires a 3’ freeboard for substantial improvements in an AE flood zone and 2’ above highest adjacent grade for substantial improvements. Request to include the floor elevation of the existing house to remain, and the floor elevation of the additions to match existing house. Locally known as 1530 TEAL DR parcel number 3429 -27

OWNER: HARBOUR ISLAND BAR LLC/Rob & Bonny Gothier

APPLICANT: Becker Morgan Group, C/O Christopher Pattey OCD-10/20/2t

CHRIS S. MASON ESQ WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON, L.L.P.

3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY

OCEAN CITY, MD 21842

SMALL ESTATE NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19273

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CHARLES H. WEBB

Notice is given that Pamela Harman, 10514 Sussex Road, Ocean City, MD 21842, was on October 13, 2022 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Charles H. Webb who died on April 16, 2022,

without a will.

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

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

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

undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates:

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

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

Pamela Harman Personal Representative

Put Your Business Card Where It Gets Noticed and Seen By Thousands of People

True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative:

Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: October 20, 2022 OCD-10/20/1t

ANTHONY M. MORRIS ESQ. 17319 AVENLEIGH DRIVE ASHTON, MD 20861

SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 19287

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF ISABEL C. FIELD

Notice is given that Joseph Hensley, 5285 Corncockle Court, Columbia, MD 21045, was on October 13, 2022 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Isabel C. Field who died on February 24, 2022, with a will.

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

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

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

(1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or

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

Joseph Hensley Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott

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

Name of newspaper designated by personal representative:

Ocean City Digest

Date of publication: October 20, 2022 OCD-10/20/1t

Cottage Cafe announces its sale

(Oct. 21, 2022) The Cottage Café Restaurant & Pub in Bethany Beach, Delaware, has been sold to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware-based SoDel Concepts hospitality group.

“The Cottage Café has such a sweet spot in the hearts of so many locals and visitors,” said Scott Kammerer, president of SoDel Concepts. “Because the restaurant is in a fast-growing area, it attracts a loyal following and a new fan base.”

Tom Neville and Brent Poffenberger started the restaurant in 1993 in Ocean City after graduating from Shepherd University in West Virginia. In 1994

they opened a second Cottage Cafe in Bethany in the spot where it is today.

In the early days, both partners cooked.

“We did everything,” Neville said. “We worked 80-hour weeks. But the hard work paid off.”

The partners later opened the Bethany Boathouse, which they are keeping.

“Owning two restaurants has been rewarding, but now we want to spend more time with our families,” Poffenberger said. “We feel fortunate that a local family-owned company like SoDel Concepts is interested in The Cottage

Café. It’s important that we leave it in good hands. We are confident that SoDel will continue the tradition of great service to our guests, and, maybe most importantly, they will take care of our staff.”

Kammerer said customers and staff should not expect the 240-seat restaurant to change. All of the local favorites including the bestselling pot roast will remain on the menu.

“The Cottage Café is family-friendly, and it will stay that way,” Kammerer said. “They don’t make coastal restaurants like this anymore, and we are proud to continue Tom and Brent’s legacy.”

JUST LISTED!

MONTEGO BAY

less than a

Well-maintained fully furnished waterfront

from Ocean

the

10-mile

&

3BR/2BA, a brand-new kitchen - featuring granite counter tops, an island, high quality solid wood Wolf kitchen cabinets, ss appliances, tile backsplash, & motion sensor pull-out spray faucet. Additional features include new luxury vinyl plank flooring, an open floorplan (w/the living room overlooking the water), lg family room (w/vaulted ceilings, 2 skylights & and a ceiling fan), an abundance of natural light, natural gas heat, central air, insulated windows and a new W/D. Outside there is a front porch, lg sundeck, w/new decking and railings, dock w/new deck boards, a separate pier, an electric lift and a storage shed. Beautifully landscaped w/hardscape and features a new (2021) 2-car cement parking pad. Community features 3 pools, 2 tennis courts, a miniature golf course, a pickle ball court, a shuffleboard court, a 5-acre open park and street lighting w/a lamppost at every residence. Additional amenities include city streets & sidewalks, city water & sewer and city trash collection. The HOA fees are just $360 a year. $599,00

a

MONTEGO BAY

Located in the sought-after community of Montego Bay in quiet North OC, this 3BR/2BA home features a newer central a/c unit (2018), insulated windows, vinyl siding, architectural shingle roof, block skirting, and full screened porch. Inside you will find a fully furnished interior, wide open floor plan, double sliding doors leading to screened deck, 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

year! $375,000

The Cottage Café Restaurant & Pub in Bethany Beach, Delaware, has been sold to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware-based SoDel Concepts hospitality group.

(Oct. 21, 2022) The Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce recently announced its 2022 “The Best of Us” award recipients.

• Business Of The Year – JDog Junk Removal and Hauling (Carol Vaillancourt, owner).

JDog Junk Removal and Hauling is a team of veterans and military family members offering junk removal and hauling services for homes and businesses in Ocean City and the surrounding areas.

It proudly adds to the sustainability of the community by donating and recycling 60 to 80 percent of the items it hauls.

Vaillancourt currently serves in the Delaware Army National Guard holding the rank of major as the operations officer for the 721st Troop Command.

• Business Person Of The Year – Kim Shanahan (owner of Gifts Fulfilled)

Kim Shanahan started Gifts Fulfilled with the mission of creating jobs for people with disabilities.

She became passionate about this cause when she was pregnant with her last child.

Having many months to think about the “what ifs” one “what if” she knew she could directly impact was job creation for disabled people.

She is proud to say that Gifts Ful-

filled has been a “first job” for more than half their staff.

Taking over 20 years of gift industry experience she adapted the processes for creating gift baskets and care packages into systems that could work for a variety of people.

Her goal is to continue to grow the business to create jobs that empower more individuals to pursue the goals of opportunity, full participation, and economic self-sufficiency.

• Nonprofit Of The Year – Beach to Bay Heritage Area (Lisa Challenger, executive director).

The Beach to Bay Heritage Area promotes, preserves and protects the cultural heritage, historical linkages and

REAL ESTATE REPORT

natural assets of Maryland’s lower Eastern Shore.

Its vision is to unify, elevate and celebrate the collective stories of the lower shore’s heritage.

Through a variety of partnerships with individual citizens, organizations and public agencies, the heritage area works to blend economic development at the local level with the conservation of the area’s natural, cultural, and historic resources in a regional approach that better serves all counties and municipalities.

• Ambassadors Of The YearEmily Meadows and Pip the Beach Cat Emily Meadows and her husband, Jack Bulak, had no idea that by rescu-

ing a street cat they named Pip in 2018, they would spend the next several years devoted to helping hundreds of stray and feral kittens find medical assistance and forever homes.

Partnering with the local nonprofit Town Cats Inc., they provide financial and adoptive support through advocacy on social media and through their store in Ocean Pines, Pip’s Kitten Emporium.

Becoming an Ocean Pines Chamber Ambassador in 2021, Pip has brought positive attention to the community and is a huge tourism draw for his online followers. He has over 300,000 fans worldwide and has been featured

Features of Maryland WholeHome

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer

(Oct. 21, 2022) The Department of Housing and Community Development in Maryland (DHCD) offers a program called the Maryland WholeHome Program which can help homeowners make valuable repairs and enhancements to their home to

help lower monthly utility bills and improve quality of life.

Maryland WholeHome grants and loans can be used to upgrade to energy efficient appliances, repair or replace heating and cooling systems, replace insulation, add accessibility features for seniors or those with special needs, remove lead paint, upgrade plumbing, and address structural and maintenance issues.

This program offers low-interest rate loans and grants.

DHCD offers a range of programs that help homeowners maintain safe, comfortable and accessible homes for their families.

These programs help Maryland homeowners invest in affordable improvements that can help save money on heating and cooling costs, enhance livability for senior residents and those with special needs, and make repairs to meet building codes for safer living.

Loans and grants are based on what type of work is needed, as well

as household income and ability to repay. The maximum interest rate is 4 percent and may be as low as zero, payments may be deferred, and there is no application fee.

Home repair improvements may include: plumbing and septic repairs; roof repair/replacement; correct building code violations; reduce/eliminate lead paint hazards; repair/replace porches; address structural or maintenance issues; and, install accessibility aids such as hand railings, ramps, grab bars, wider doorways.

Energy efficiency improvements may include: install EnergyStar appliances; improve air quality; retrofit lighting; install energy conservation materials/insulation; seal air and whole house envelope; and, upgrade/repair HVAC systems, clean furnaces, improve heating/cooling functions.

To read over the program details and download applications, visit https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/Pages/WholeHome.aspx

— Lauren Bunting is a licensed Broker with Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City, MD.

Harrison Group adding Dunes Suites, Court

(Oct. 21, 2022) Harrison Group Resort Hotels & Restaurants has added Dune Suites and Dunes Court, both located at 28th Street in Ocean City, to its growing oceanfront hotel portfolio and looks forward to welcoming guests to both of these coastal destination resort properties.

Dune Suites, located at 2709 Baltimore Ave., is a family-friendly oceanfront hotel property featuring 64 oceanfront suites with sweeping views of the ocean and the wide Atlantic coastline.

Hotel guests will enjoy the direct beachfront experience and the close proximity to the Boardwalk.

This desirable direct oceanfront location is within easy walking distance to

amusements, shops, restaurants and other local attractions.

Each spacious 350-square-foot accommodation is equipped with a fullsize refrigerator, countertop stove, microwave oven, coffeemaker and private balcony showcasing the ocean vista.

Convenient amenities such as complimentary wifi, upgraded bath products and free parking enhance the individual guest experience.

Dunes Court, situated directly off the Boardwalk and Atlantic Ocean, is just steps to local attractions, shops and dining.

This 49-unit beachside property is located at 2700 Baltimore Ave., less than a quarter block from the beach and

WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS BRIEFS

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer

(Oct. 21, 2022) The Worcester County Commissioners met for the regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 18, in Snow Hill. Some of the topics discussed included grants and nuisance abatement.

Grant awards

The commissioners approved receipt of two grants from the Department of Homeland Security, which were awarded to the State of Maryland and divvied out.

One of the awards, the Emergency Management Performance Grant, is for $74,876. The second award, the State Homeland Security Program Grant, is for $87,467.

Director of Emergency Services Billy Birch said both grants can only go toward programs and activities like training that are approved by the state for compliancy.

For example, a portion of the

Homeland Security grant, Birch said, may have to go toward improvements to the county’s cyber security.

Track equipment

Though not discussed, the commissioners approved a request in the consent agenda to donate the Worcester County Recreation Center’s pole vault pit to Stephen Decatur High School.

Included in the pit are seven connected mats and a cover mat, which are all over 15 years old.

A new pole vault system is included in the FY23 budget.

Nuisance abatement

A hearing was held in response to a nuisance abatement order issued on Sept. 9 to property owners on Silver Point Lane in Ocean City.

The property owners, James and Sharon Brown, told commissioners they have two boats they need to have removed from the property to be in

Boardwalk.

The Dunes Court offers a charming, affordable destination for families and friends to stay during their beach vacation.

The three-story building embraces a 1960’s coastal vibe, but with all the updated comforts and modern conveniences a guest would expect of an established larger hotel.

Inspired by good times and sunny beach days, the accommodations are bright and airy, and each guest room includes a mini-fridge and microwave, plus guests will enjoy complimentary wifi and a nostalgic courtyard outdoor pool.

Harrison Group Resort Hotels & Restaurants is a family-owned company

that owns and operates 17 unique oceanfront hotels.

It operates in Maryland, Virginia and North Carolina under Hilton, Marriott, IHG and Choice brands, as well as eight independent hotel properties.

Fourteen hotels are located in Ocean City. There is one in Corolla, North Carolina; and two are located in Virginia Beach.

For more information about the Dunes Suites and/or the Dunes Court, call 410-289-2277 or visit https://www.dunesuitesoc.com or https://dunessuitesoc.com/.

Reach Harrison Group Resort Hotels & Restaurants at 410-289-4444 or visit https://harrisongrouphotels.com/.

compliance with the county.

Sharon Brown told the commissioners one of the boats is a sailboat, and on Sept. 28, she paid a salvage company $1,200 to have it removed from the property.

The other boat on the property that needs to be removed is a pontoon boat, which Brown said someone is in the process of purchasing.

“They have to get it off the prop-

erty,” she said. “That’s all that’s left to be done.”

Brown asked the commissioners for a 30-day extension to give her enough time to have the boats removed from the property.

Instead, Commissioner Chip Bertino moved to give the Browns 60 days to become compliant, which was seconded by Commissioner Ted Elder and unanimously approved.

OP chamber awards announced

Continued from Page 42

in national publications such as Catster Magazine and the New York Post.

Meadows has published three books about Pip’s adventures. Two spotlighting his life in Ocean City, featuring many businesses and attractions, and another about his travels through Poland, where, at the end of this year, the trio will be relocating.

Awards will be presented during the

Nov. 3 “Do-Si-Do at the Downs” awards banquet at Ocean Downs Casino. The Learner’s Lab Foundation and Competency Group are the cocktail hour sponsors.

Travelista Travels has donated a trip to be raffled off to event attendees, a stay at Barcelo Gran Faro Los Cabos in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico.

Banquet tickets cost $75 per person and sponsorships are available.

Realty

County OKs composting zoning ordinance

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer

(Oct. 21, 2022) The county commissioners adopted a new zoning ordinance that will help pave the way for environmental advocates to establish food waste composting facilities across Worcester County.

The ordinance request came from one of the founding members of Go Green OC, an organization focused on removing food waste from the waste stream in Ocean City.

Since the organization began its efforts in the resort two years ago, founding member Garvey Heiderman told the commissioners on Tuesday, it is on track to remove 155 tons of food waste.

Heiderman also told the commissioners for the last two years, Go Green OC has been operating under a transient use permit because there

was no precedent for operating a composting facility. With a successful program under his belt, Heiderman requested establishing precedent, not only for his organization’s expansion, but also for anyone else who wants to join the efforts.

The adopted ordinance establishes setbacks such as a minimum of 100 feet from property lines and 300 feet from residences. It also ensures the minimum property size for a composting facility be 5 acres.

Heiderman told the commissioners the ordinance sets in place a much larger stamp than the state requires, as there are requirements at the state level, but not the county.

Heiderman, who also owns the Hobbit on 81st Street, has had an agreement with Ocean City since last year to pull food waste from a hand-

ful of restaurants, including Raw Organics, Fish Tales and Mother’s Cantina.

Though green in nature, the efforts also save the county money, especially when it comes to landfill expenses. Ocean City currently ships its waste to a facility in Pennsylvania, and since the food waste composting program began, the tonnage shipped has dropped, saving the resort money.

Also, since the program started, Heiderman told the commissioners, there have not been any complaints from Bishopville residents nor the Maryland Department of the Environment.

Commissioner Ted Elder asked Heiderman odor from the composting facilities, and Heiderman told him a properly maintained composting facility does not smell.

Once the public hearing was closed, Commissioner Josh Nordstrom moved to adopt the new ordinance, which was seconded by Commissioner Diana Purnell and unanimously approved.

Garvey Heiderman, founder of Go Green OC, gained another win after the Worcester County Commissioners adopted a new ordinance that paves the way for him and other green-minded people who want to establish composting facilities across the county.

Virginia gas station inching closer to Maryland sewers

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer

(Oct. 21, 2022) A gas station just on the other side of the Maryland border, in New Church, Virginia is a step closer to being able to pump wastewater to a treatment plant in Pocomoke City after the Worcester County Commissioners agreed in a 43 vote to amend the current code.

During a County Commissioners meeting Tuesday, Attorney Mark Cropper pleaded the case for his client, Royal Farms, Inc., to connect to a sewer pipeline used by the Virginia Rest Area Plaza on U.S. Route 13. The pipeline leads to a wastewater treatment plant in Pocomoke City, run by the city itself.

Even though the county does not operate the treatment plant, it falls under county code, which before the amendment was voted on, only allowed for the rest area to connect to the line.

Cropper told the commissioners there was a lot of talk in the community that allowing an out-of-state business to connect to the pipeline should not be allowed, but in his argument, he said Worcester has about 240 homes in the northern portion of the county connecting to Delaware water and wastewater systems.

He also said the effluent from the Royal Farms in New Church is currently getting pumped out and hauled to the treatment facility in Pocomoke. The only difference, Cropper explained, is how the effluent gets to the facility – either by truck or pipeline.

As part of the agreement, Royal Farms will pay $300,000 as a down payment for services, which will go toward upgrades at the Pocomoke City treatment plant.

Bishopville resident and County Planning Commission member Richard Wells said he voted against amending the code to allow for more connections on the pipeline, not to stop them from having a viable system to dispose of their waste, but because it was across state lines.

Wells said it is not Maryland’s responsibility to provide a way for a Virginia business to dispose of its waste – it is Virginia’s and Accomack County’s responsibility, and the solution should be worked on between the states and the counties, not Worcester County and the business.

By allowing one business to connect, he explained, the county is opening it up for anyone to connect.

“My position is it’s Virginia’s responsibility to work it out for their property owner,” Wells said.

South Point resident Steve Katsanos agreed with Wells and questioned why Virginia was not stepping up to take care of the situation.

Commissioner Ted Elder asked whether Pocomoke City had been in contact with Accomack County regarding a wastewater treatment solution and was told that Royal Farms had been in connection with the county and the Virginia Department of Health. Their recommendation was to contact Pocomoke City since

GREG WEHNER/OCEAN CITY TODAY

RISE AND SHINE

PHOTO COURTESY CONNIE ALDERFER

The sun peaks over the Atlantic Ocean as morning waves roll up on the beach. As the weather continues to cool, fewer people are out on the beach, leaving Mother Nature alone to pursue her artistic endeavors.

Virginia Royal Farms closer to getting Maryland sewers

there was no other connection nearby.

“This is about economics,” Commissioner Chip Bertino said. “This is economics. This is nothing more than that, from my perspective.” He explained that the business decided to operate in Virginia, not Maryland, and if they are concerned about causing an environmental disaster by having overflowing septic systems that could leach into the ground water, they have the option to move the business to Maryland.

Cropper said the business will have to shut the location down because there are no other viable options unless the amendment is passed.

But he also said it was not as if Royal Farms did not have any businesses in Worcester County that help feed the economy, because they do.

“It just so happens, only one location is across the line,” Cropper said. “If anyone deserved the cooperation from the county, it’s them.”

Bertino disagreed, telling cropper Royal Farms is a business and their goal is to generate business. The location in Virginia was the result of a decision the owners made, and they can shut down the location.

“This does set a precedent,” Bertino said.

Commissioner Bud Church told his colleagues that allowing this amendment to pass is, “in the simplest terms … a good neighbor policy.”

He also told the other commissioners the planning commissioners were appointed by the County Commissioners to do a job, and they voted to support the amendment, though it was not unanimous.

Bertino moved to deny the request because it would set a new precedent that allows the county’s rights to be subservient to the needs of a business. Instead, he suggested denying the request and advancing with Accomack County and the state of Virginia, rather than bearing the burden.

Commissioner Jim Bunting seconded the motion, which in the end was shot down 3-4, with Elder jumping on board.

Commissioner Josh Nordstrom then moved to approve the resolution, which was modified by Commissioner Joe Mitrecic to approve and begin discussions with Accomack County since Worcester is looking for ways to subsidize Pocomoke City’s fire and EMS services. The motion was approved, 4-3.

PHOTO COURTESY JOSH NORDSTROM BIG MAN ON CAMPUS

Worcester County Commissioner Joshua Nordstrom recently earned a master of science degree in organizational leadership from Wilmington University. This is the second such degree attained by the commissioner following completion of a masters in public administration in 2020. Nordstrom, who also holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from George Washington University, believes his studies have allowed him to become a more successful leader.

cabinetry,

Sheriff’s Office planning to hire nine full-time deputies

By Greg Wehner Staff Writer

(Oct. 21, 2022) Like many different fields of work, county law enforcement is struggling to find people to fill several vacant positions.

Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli is familiar with the challenge of finding employees. On Tuesday, the top law enforcement official in the county told the County Commissioners that over the past five years, there have been no less than eight vacant positions – currently there are nine vacant part-time positions in his department.

During the meeting, Crisafulli requested the commissioners approve converting the nine part-time positions into nine full-time positions, which they agreed to do.

“We’re just simply not getting part-time,” Crisafulli said, explaining that in the past the department was able to attract law enforcement retirees for part-time positions, but these days they’re retiring and putting their badges and guns down.

Having nine open vacancies puts a strain on the daily operations of the sheriff’s office. And while the department is not getting many part-time applications, Crisafulli said applications are coming in for full-time positions – some of which are considered lateral moves from other agencies.

Seven of the nine vacancies would be positioned in the Worcester County court system, while the other two would be placed in schools, ac-

cording to the sheriff.

In a memo to the commissioners, Crisafulli said two of the nine parttime positions are budgeted with benefits, and converting them to fulltime would be cost effective and decrease the strain on daily operations.

Crisafulli originally estimated the request to convert the nine part-time positions to full-time would come with a cost of $517,516. On Tuesday, though, he said a more accurate cost would be $387,353.57, over the course of an entire fiscal year.

Commissioner Ted Elder questioned the cost, saying it would be close to $43,000 per employee.

Crisafulli told Elder the difference is these positions are all $43,000, but that includes salary and benefits.

Elder also asked if there would be any open part-time positions once these are converted to full-time, and Crisafulli said it would be up to the staff that fills the part-time slots.

“It’s fluid,” he said. “Someone could retire tomorrow…if that’s a part-time deputy and they retire, we would then have that part-time vacancy.”

Ultimately, though, the situation is “taxing” Crisafulli’s staff.

He said the county owes it to the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office to ensure the resources are available. At one point, Crisafulli explained, there were 14 part-time employees and now they are down to nine.

The commissioners unanimously agreed to grant the sheriff’s request.

The Worcester County Commissioners will allow Sheriff Matt Crisafulli to seek nine full-time deputies to fill vacant positions, following a commissioners’ decision on Tuesday.

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

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

CORPORATE SPONSORS

TEE SPONSORS

Company

Pumping

Jenkins Gordy, Attorney Bank of Ocean City

Auto Wash

Funeral Home

Burke, Attorney

Gaskill, Attorney

& Main

DONATORS

Moore,

The Tars perform historical maritime, Celtic and Americana music last Saturday during Harbor Day at the Docks at the West Ocean City Commercial Harbor.

Salty Dog

Landing

Shore

Popcorn

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY HARBOR DAY

A celebration of Eastern Shore maritime culture was on display during Harbor Day at the Docks last Saturday at the West Ocean City Commercial Harbor.

LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Guests attending Harbor Day at the Docks last Saturday at the West Ocean City Commercial Harbor check out a tank of horseshoe crabs.

LISA CAPITELLI/ OCEAN CITY TODAY

CORVETTE WEEKEND

GREG WEHNER/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Debbi Dean Colley named community coordinator at ACT

(Oct. 21, 2022) Debbi Dean Colley has been named the new Assateague Coastal Trust Community Engagement coordinator.

“We are so excited to have Debbi as part of our team. We have many new programs and projects on the drawing board and she’s the perfect candidate to help make them come to fruition,” said Brenda Davis, ACT’s new executive director.

This position encompasses social media specialist, fundraising campaigns, marketing, preparing press releases, along with volunteer coordination with an extension of outreach into the community.

An artist at heart, Colley was born in Pittsburgh and attended Pittsburgh Center for the Arts.

She has traveled internationally to London, England and Rimini, Italy, teaching advanced platform work to colleagues in the salon industry.

She then studied environmental education at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, which then led her into the environmental sector and de-

Debbi Colley

See COLLEY

PADDLE OUT

Surfers form a circle off the beach near Castle-in-the-Sand’s Coconuts Beach Bar Saturday in the memory of John League, a compelling figure in the local surfing community who died of colon cancer in September. He was a resident of Annapolis.

Colley tapped for ACT position

voted herself to the issues surrounding waterway destruction.

Colley has a strong background in project management, event coordination and volunteer service with a previous commitment as the project manager for Grow Berlin Green (GBG).

This was an extension of ACT, which was a multi-year campaign to the area as a model community for participatory environmental protection, conservation and smart growth policy and practice.

GBG was instrumental to Berlin as the first Maryland municipality to qualify for “Sustainable Maryland Certified” status by the University of Maryland Environmental Finance Center.

Colley feels she has come full circle back to her old stomping grounds with her environmental education and action.

She is excited to be working with Davis and Coastkeeper Gabby Ross, along with the entire ACT team and board to engage the community through outreach and communication.

Her goals are to connect with businesses, schools and organizations to become partners and enact regulations that encompass the purpose and vision of Assateague Coastal Trust.

Anyone interested in joining the organization should contact Colley at outreach@actforbays.org or 443856-9309.

Assateague Coastal Trust is the Waterkeeper Alliance program for the coastal watershed of lower Delmarva.

It is part of a global network of nonprofit organizations fighting for every community’s right to water that is fishable and swimmable.

Ken Argot, executive director of Diakonia, left, updated the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City on Oct. 5, on the West Ocean City shelter. Diakonia focuses on issues of homelessness, food assistance and veteran services. The objective is temporary housing to transition people into permanent residences. He is pictured with Kiwanis Club President Bob Wolfing.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID J. LANDIS, SR. DIAKONIA DIRECTOR

STRIVING TO THRIVE

Worcester Preparatory students, along with faculty and staff, recently kicked off this school year’s theme of THRIVE! THRIVE is an acronym for Trust, Happiness, Respect, Innovation, Value and Empathy. All of these concepts will be practiced during the school year through activities culminating up to one big THRIVE celebration. Upper School juniors and seniors standing for each letter of THRIVE!, from left are Evelyn Westman, Ava Wilsey, Griffin Jones, Chris Todorov , Austin Gentry and Maggie McCabe.

‘THRIVE’-ING

Worcester Preparatory students, along with faculty and staff, recently kicked off this school year’s theme of THRIVE! THRIVE is an acronym for Trust, Happiness, Respect, Innovation, Value and Empathy. All of these concepts will be practiced during the school year through activities culminating up to one big THRIVE celebration. Pictured are second graders.

FLOWER POWER

Worcester County Garden Club member Jackie Davies recently received two awards at the Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland District 1 “Harvest Highlights” Flower Show in Wye Mills. Her floral arrangement won first place in the “Harvest Dance” class for American traditional line mass design using fresh plant materials. It also received the tri-color award for the “Autumn Traditions” section comprised of three classes with four entries each. Davies, a National Garden Club Flower Show judge and Floral Design instructor, joined the Worcester County Garden Club after moving to Ocean Pines from Pennsylvania last October.

CORPS SWEAR-IN

COMMENDED STUDENTS

Don Coffin of Berlin was recently sworn in as judge advocate of the First State Detachment of the Marine Corps League by Frank Del Piano of Ocean City, commandant of the Department of Delaware Marine Corps League, at the organization’s monthly meeting held at Ocean City American Legion Post 166.

Worcester Preparatory School seniors Sajiv Satyal, Morgan Schoch and Sophia Spadaro have been named Commended Students in the 2023 National Merit Scholarship Program. About 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized. Although they will not continue in the 2023 competition for National Merit Scholarship awards, Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2023 competition by taking the 2021 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). They are pictured with WPS Director of College Counseling Vickie Garner and and Head of School Dr. John McDonald.

announce hire of three new members to team

(Oct. 21, 2022) Worcester Youth & Family Counseling Services announce the hiring of three members. Christine Felix will direct the Worcester Navigation program.

Felix earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from SUNY Albany and had previously worked in caretaking and resource navigation.

She has a history with Worcester Youth & Family, being a previous member of its Family Connections team for individuals and families across Worcester County.

Those who would like to work with the Worcester Navigation program or need assistance in finding low-income or needs-based resources can call Felix at 410-641- 5498 or email cfelix@gowoyo.org to make an appointment.

Rachel Mitchell has been named the front office coordinator.

Mitchell is an Eastern Shore native with a degree and work history in psychology for both children and adults with mental illness, as well as marketing.

Art League thanks you Editor,

On behalf of the Art League of Ocean City, I would like to thank the many members of the community who came together to support the inperson portion of the 18th annual Sand Castle Home Tour held on Sept. 29-30, as well as the Sunday Soirée on Oct. 9, our annual cocktail party that honors our Home Tour homeowners and sponsors.

Thank you to our committee who worked for months on this project, the homeowners who opened their doors to our tour takers and videographers, and the writers, florists, and artists who contributed their work to the event.

Our gratitude goes out to our Home Tour title sponsor, T&G Builders, whom we thank for the second year in a row. We are grateful to all of our Home Tour sponsors: 32 Palm Restaurant, American Granite & Tile, Arctic Heating & Air, Atlantic Exposure, Bank of Delmarva, Bank of Ocean City, Beach Scapes, Captain’s Table, Carolina Street, Casual Designs, Coral Reef Restaurant, Delaware Elevator, Denney Lighting & Design, Donaway Furniture/Bethany Resort, Fager’s

Island, Framing Corner, Franke Architects, Hobbit Restaurant, J. Conn Scott, Joyce G Design, Kendall Furniture, Made in the Shade, Mann Properties, Maryland’s Coast, Old Pro Golf, Perfect Furnishings, Poole Construction, Seacrets, Sea Glass Pool & Spa, Southwinds, Stacy Ward, Surf House Properties, T&G Builders, Taylor Bank, and The Windrow Group.

We also appreciate the support of our media sponsors who helped us get the word out — WMDT 47/ABC, OC Today, The Dispatch, and Ocean 98.

And of the sponsors who helped make the event even more enjoyable: the Town of Ocean City, Trond’s Pool Construction, Atlantic General Hospital, Ocean Downs Casino, Haley Architecture, and Fisher Architecture.

We can’t forget to thank our docents and volunteers, who greeted guests with smiling faces, our Home Tour committee — with chairs Ginny Outten and Dawn Rogers — whose efforts went above and beyond, and our

creative and hard-working staff, who put it all together.

The community’s support continued for our Sunday Soirée party from Gayle Widdowson and Rina and Jeff Thaler, along with the restaurants that donated their incredibly delicious food and drink: Annabelle’s BBQ & Creamery, Arches Oyster, Bayside Skillet, Big Oyster Brewery, BLU Crab House, Bourbon Street on the Bay, Candy Kitchen, Crab Cake Factory Bayside, Harrisons Harbor Watch, Malia’s Café, Mancini’s, Pit N Pub, Seacrets, Spain Wine Bar, and Sterling Tavern.

We also sincerely appreciate the efforts of our Soirée committee — headed by Gayle Widdowson and Cynthia Leiner — who transformed the Arts Center and courtyard into a beautiful autumn setting, and the many volunteers who made the event special.

The virtual Sand Castle Home Tour continues online through Oct. 31, benefiting the Art League, and we encourage you to buy your tickets and take the tour at www.SandCastleHomeTour.com.

Rina Thaler Executive Director Art League of Ocean City

Mail your letter to editor@oceancitytoday.net

All letters are subject to editing for clarity and potentially libelous material

Christine Felix

Community matters put in perspective by loss

Ocean City Today and its sister paper, Bayside Gazette, mourn the passing this week of one of its shareholders, Hale Harrison, who suffered a fatal heart attack Monday.

Although this space is usually devoted to commentary regarding events, issues and circumstances specific to Ocean City and Worcester County, the departure of this irreplaceable part of the papers’ existence puts these day-to-day affairs, internal squabbles and politics into perspective.

The importance of Ocean Pines election difficulties, or its recent court cases can’t be denied, just as the maybe, maybenot development of the Margaritaville resort on the Boardwalk in Ocean City has everyone’s attention, while the demolition of the old Tyson Plant in Berlin is on everyone’s mind.

But as compared to the jolting loss of someone so wellknown and so engaged in local affairs — and so tolerant of the journalistic independence exercised by these papers — these other matters are bumps in the road. Sooner or later, these concerns will be paved over and other issues, also deemed to be just as critical to the communities’ welfare, will arise.

The loss of Hale Harrison, however, will not be so easily forgotten at these papers, if only because of the reason he invested in them. Although some of the original investors — Mr. Harrison was not among them — might have believed owning a portion of a newspaper would serve them well in their public pursuits, Mr. Harrison stepped in almost a year later for one reason only: he did it to help prevent his friends from losing the money they put up early on in the paper’s development.

That’s it. He had no designs on its news or opinion pages and made that clear at the time. He also did it, as he would admit, against his better judgment.

Simply put, he did what his instincts told him not to do because his friends needed help. That’s important, as was his tolerance of a freewheeling (and occasionally wrong) editorial crew, and it’s a loss that will be felt a long, long time.

PUBLIC EYE

TV seeks perfect show

(Reprinted from 2004)

Network television executives were shocked when a New York Times article said American-produced shows no longer dominate the programming in foreign countries.

American TV programs that once occupied the prime time viewing slots in Europe, Asia and points south have been bounced by locally produced shows and relegated to the wee hours of the early morning, when they run at all.

"More cleavage!" said a Fox TV network executive. "Yeah, and tight leather pants on girl superheroes who have no visible means of support and drive Ferraris. Better yet, we can produce something really relevant for each place. Like for Southeast Asia, we could produce, say, "Married with Children for Sale."

"No, no, no," the advisor said. "If we're going to show them that America is numero uno, the top dog, the cheese, the primo place on the planet, we gotta be irrelevant like we've always been and stick with it."

By Stewart Dobson

So this week, deep inside the Situation Room in Washington, D.C., military brass, political advisors and television executives huddled around a table considering, appropriately enough, the situation.

"We're in trouble, gentlemen," said a top political analyst. "First, we can't continue to expose the world to the wonders of American culture if they don't watch our programs. Second, and this is the bad news, "Friends" has been bumped to the 1:15 a.m. time slot in Tibet by a locally produced show called, "Yak, Yak, Yak."

"A talk show?" someone asked.

"No, a cooking show," he replied. "So now we're looking for options, gentlemen. Suggestions?

The general slammed his fist on the tabletop. "Nuke 'em if they can't take a joke."

"How about economic sanctions?" asked a State Department official.

"But sir," came a voice from a junior aide in the back of the room. "Americans aren't watching network TV like they used to either, because our shows have gotten, well, really, really stupid."

"What?" raged the Fox exec. "We've built our reputation on stupid, you twit."

"Yeah!" chimed in the NBC, ABC and CBS executives. "We're dumber than a bag of hammers, too. So there."

"Beat it, kid," the strategist broke in. "You're too young to understand that national security is at stake. NATO could unravel. Even the North Koreans are getting into the act by peddling a Disney rip-off series called, "Mickey and Plutonium. We need to counter with something vital, something intelligent, something that shows we care."

"OK," said one TV exec, "Let's say we have these three female American diplomats."

"With superpowers."

"Yeah, that only work when they're, ah, getting dressed."

"Oooooooo, now we're talking," said yet another. "And three goofy boyfriends and …."

Pickleball Classic raises more than $17,000

(Oct. 21, 2022) The Ocean Pines Pickleball Club raised more than $17,660 for the American Cancer Society during the fifth annual Pickleball Pink Ribbon Classic, held Oct. 7 at the Ocean Pines Racquet Center.

All proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer campaign, which has been active since 1993.

Event Director Chris Shook said the Pickleball Pink Ribbon Classic is especially meaningful to her. This is her third year directing the tournament.

“It touches home,” she said. “I’m a

two-time breast cancer survivor, and a lot of people here are survivors.

“It’s also just a fun time for everybody to come out and play some pickleball,” she continued. “The turnout was great, and we’re very happy with the new courts and the court repairs by Ocean Pines.”

Event organizer Julie Woulfe said 128 players competed on 16 courts, and 29 volunteers helped service the event. Thirty-one sponsors supported the tournament.

“Volunteers make these types of things happen,” Woulfe said. “Our wonderful volunteers planned the

tournament, solicited sponsors and donations, baked cookies, put together lunches, set up and took down tables and accessories, monitored courts and scores, put together raffle items, gathered snacks and medals, coordinated with ACS, and helped clean up.”

Gold, silver and bronze medals were given to the top players.

According to ACS, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer events “have collectively grown into the nation’s largest and most impactful breast cancer movement providing a supportive community for courageous breast cancer survivors and metasta-

tic breast cancer thrivers, including caregivers, and families alike.”

That has translated into more than $71 million invested in breast cancer research grants.

ACS has also responded to a quarter of a million requests for cancer information through the nonprofit’s helpline and chat services.

An ACS mobile app has connected almost 4,000 women facing breast cancer with trained breast cancer survivors to support them.

For more information on the American Cancer Society, visit www.cancer.org.

PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN PINES ASSOCIATION

The Ocean Pines Pickleball Club raised more than $17,660 for the American Cancer Society during the fifth annual Pickleball Pink Ribbon Classic, held Oct. 7 at the Ocean Pines Racquet Center.

Battle of Santa Cruz Islands waged between Japan, USA

By Sam Ghaleb Contributing Writer

This week, 80 years ago, ships of the Imperial Japanese Navy met those of the U. S. Navy, in the Battle of Santa Cruz Islands. The battle is sometimes referred to as the Battle of Santa Cruz, or in Japanese sources as the Battle of the South Pacific.

This naval battle was the fourth carrier battle of the Pacific campaign, and the fourth major naval engagement fought between the United States Navy and the Imperial Japanese Navy during the lengthy Guadalcanal campaign. In similar fashion to the battles of Coral Sea, Midway, and the Eastern Solomon Islands, the ships of the U.S. and Japanese navies were rarely in direct visual range of each other. Instead, almost all attacks by both sides were mounted by carrier, or land-based, aircraft.

In an attempt to drive U.S. Marines from Guadalcanal, and end the stalemate that had existed since September 1942, the Imperial Japanese Army planned a major ground offensive, on Guadalcanal, for Oct. 20-25, 1942. In support of this offensive, and with the hope of engaging U.S. Naval forces, Japanese carriers and warships moved into a position near the southern Solomon Islands.

From there, the Japanese naval forces hoped to engage and decisively defeat the Americans by sinking their last two remaining operational carriers in the Pacific — the Enterprise (The Big “E”), and Hornet. These were the same carriers that launched Doolittle’s famous raid on Tokyo, on April 19, 1942. The U.S. also hoped to meet the Japanese in battle, with the same objectives of breaking the stalemate and decisively defeating the Imperial Japanese Navy Combined

Fleet.

In command of the Japanese naval forces was Vice Adm. Chuichi Nagumo, the man who commanded the Japanese Naval forces at Pearl Harbor and Midway. His objective was to seek and draw U.S. Naval forces into battle. To accomplish this task two Japanese fleet carriers, Hiy and Juny, and one light carrier, Zuih, arrived at the main Japanese naval base at Truk, from Japan, in early October. Shortly after their arrival at Truk, the carriers Juny, and Zuih sailed to join the carriers Shokaku and Zuikaku, the two remaining fleet carriers from the attack on Pearl Harbor.

New WYFCS hires announced

Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services is currently working on several projects including food drives, opening its SAGES program for afterschool programming for middle schoolaged girls, and revamping its Worcester Navigation program.

For more information, contact Mitchell at 410-641- 5498 or email rmitchell@gowoyo.org.

Kayla Figueroa will direct the Worcester Connects youth mentoring program.

Figueroa has extensive work with

case management, volunteer management, and childcare for children aged 0-10.

She previously was Lower Shore CASA volunteer supervisor.

Families with students in Worcester County public school grades 1-12 or adults aged 18 and older who would like to volunteer with these students can contact Figueroa at 410-641- 5498 or email kfigueroa@gowoyo.org to find out more about our youth programming.

For a full list of programs offered at Worcester Youth & Family, visit www.gowoyo.org.

Vice Admiral Chuichi Nagumo

Kayla Figueroa

Rachel Mitchell

With four carriers fully equipped with air groups, four battleships, eight heavy and two light cruisers, 30 destroyers, 12 submarines, and four oil tankers, the Japanese Combined Fleet, was directed by Adm. Isoroku Yamamoto from the giant (68,000 tons) battleship Yamato, in Truk.

He was confident that they could atone for the defeat at the Battle of Midway. Apart from a couple of air raids on Henderson Field in October, the Japanese carriers and their supporting warships stayed out of the Battle for Guadalcanal in the northwestern area of the southern Solomon Islands, waiting for a chance to approach and engage the U.S. carriers.

Nagumo’s warships began to position themselves toward the southern Solomon Islands to support the army offensive, and to be ready to engage any U.S. warships, especially the carriers, that were assembled to support the U.S. defenses. The Japanese believed that U.S. Naval forces were likely to be in the Solomon Island area, because they had read a report from United Press, dated Oct. 20, that stated that the United States Navy was preparing for a major sea and air battle in the South Pacific.

On the American side, the forces assembled to oppose the Japanese move were commanded by Vice Adm. William Halsey, who replaced Vice

Adm. Robert Lee Ghormley, as commander of South Pacific Forces. The forces were grouped into two naval task forces — Task Force 16, under Rear Adm. Thomas Kinkaid, and Task Force 17, under Rear Adm. George Murray. Task Force 16 was composed of the Big “E,” the battleship South Dakota, one heavy and one light cruiser, and eight destroyers. Task Force 17 included the Hornet, two heavy and two light cruisers, and six destroyers.

The Battle of Santa Cruz Islands commenced on Oct. 25 when a Catalina flying boat reported sighting two Japanese carriers 360 miles west-northwest from Adm. Kinkaid’s Task Force 16, moving south-southeast. Kinkaid immediately ordered a search to be conducted, followed by a strike against the two Japanese carriers. As a result, the Japanese light carrier Zuih was damaged and had to retreat to Truk after launching all her planes.

The Japanese, realizing that they were under full attack by planes from the Hornet and Enterprise, and knowing that the Hornet was the same carrier that launched the B-25 bombers against Tokyo, decided to focus their attention on the Hornet.

The day of Oct. 26 saw both sides launching air strikes, and U.S. Navy and Japanese fighters engaged in combat to shoot down their opponent’s torpedo and dive bombers. In

a battle of vicious attacks from both sides, the Japanese sunk the Hornet and a destroyer, and damaged the Enterprise and South Dakota.

U.S. Navy planes succeeded in damaging the carriers Zuiho and Shokaku, as well as two destroyers. More importantly the U.S. held the advantage in one specific statistic. The U.S. Navy had lost 74 aircraft, while destroying 92 Japanese. It was a loss the Japanese could not afford. The battle for Guadalcanal was proving to be very costly for both sides.

Though, tactically, the Battle of Santa Cruz Islands gave the Japanese a slight advantage, strategically it was a narrow victory for the Americans. Nagumo’s fleet had been turned away from Guadalcanal, giving the Marines some much needed relief.

Perhaps more important, the destruction of the best Japanese naval aircrews, begun in earnest at Midway, culminated at Santa Cruz. Though plane losses were high on both sides — 74 American and 92 Japanese — the loss of airmen pointed to a Japanese catastrophe. Nearly 70 Japanese aircrews — including a number of squadron leaders — never returned to their carriers at Santa Cruz, while all but 33 American airmen did.

The Japanese Army’s failure to capture Henderson Field, and the destruction of so many fine planes and pilots, all combined to make the out-

come of Santa Cruz a critical strategic defeat for the Japanese. The Americans were still stubbornly tied to the airfield, and, though the Big “E,” was considerably damaged, it was still a potent weapon.

However, for the next few weeks the U.S. Navy would be without operable carriers in the Pacific. The Lexington, Yorktown, Wasp, and Hornet had all been sunk, while the Saratoga was under repair after suffering a torpedo hit from a Japanese submarine. And the Big “E” would be out of action due to the damage sustained at Santa Cruz.

The Battle of Santa Cruz Islands would have a far-reaching effect on both navies. For the U.S. Navy, more time was needed to absorb the new carriers coming out of the shipyards in large numbers — Essex class fleet carriers, Independence class light carriers, and the escort carriers.

As for the Imperial Japanese Navy, the task of training new air crews and flight leaders to replace the ones that were lost at Midway and Santa Cruz, would prove to be almost an impossible task. It would take another 20 months before the two navies would face each other again with carriers at the Battle of the Philippine Sea, in June 1944.

Cdr. Phil Souza II, a retired naval aviator who lives in Ridgecrest, California, and a friend of mine, supplied

me with many references, including the best written book on the subject: “Guadalcanal Campaign, Naval Fighter Combat from August to November 1942,” by John B. Lundstrom.

Many of the accounts in the book were based on communications between the author and the father of Cdr. Souza. His father, Ens. Phil Souza, served on the Hornet during the Battle of Santa Cruz in a VF-72 Flying Wildcat fighter plane. By the end of the battle he had shot down four Japanese planes.

Phil Souza would return to the United States as a true naval hero, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross and five air medals. He also had six confirmed kills to his credit making him a naval “Ace.” Phil Souza continued serving his country well into the Korean War, where he was the C. O. of fighter reconnaissance squadron VC-61 flying F9F Panther, and Banshee jets. After many years of distinguished service in the U.S. Navy, he retired as commander in 1965.

Next week: Second el Alamein

THOMAS PENNINGTON COLLINS

Ocean City

Born Aug. 26, 1926, Thomas Pennington Collins was welcomed into the arms of our Lord on Oct. 3, 2022.

Known as Penny Collins, he was born and raised in Beltsville, Maryland, and graduated from Hyattsville High School.

As a WWII veteran he served in the US Navy in 1944-45. He married Anne Florence (Flo) Snyder in July of 1947 and resided in Beltsville for another 40 years.

He retired from the USDA in 1986 and moved to Ocean City in 1987.

Known professionally as Tom Collins, he devoted over 75 years to the fire service.

He joined the Beltsville Volunteer Fire Department in 1948, giving him the distinction of being the first member to join the department after it was chartered.

Throughout the years he has held various positions at Beltsville, serving in line officer roles, fire marshal, and chairman of the board of directors.

Tom served as president from 1967 to 1970 and was the first delegate sent to represent Beltsville Volunteer Fire Department at the Maryland State Fireman’s Association (MSFA) Convention in 1951.

He continued to attend the annual conventions every year since.

Tom also became heavily involved with the Prince George’s County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association (PGCVFRA) where he served as president from 1970-71.

After receiving numerous awards, he was inducted into the Association’s Hall of Fame in 1984.

Tom had remained active with the MSFA for much of his fire service career.

He served the MSFA in various capacities, including Fire Prevention, Life Safety, and Convention Steering Committees.

He was inducted into the MSFA Hall of Fame in 1984. He was also a Life Member of the Maryland Fire Chief’s Association and served on several committees.

After Tom retired and relocated from Beltsville to Ocean City, he joined the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Department and remained an active member.

He served as chairman of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company’s 100th Anniversary Open House, served on the Governor’s Study Task Force on Fire Deaths for two years, and represented the Eastern Shore for 10 years as Maryland State Fire Prevention Commissioner.

He was also a tow judge hearing officer for the Town of Ocean City, Caine Woods Association member

and past president, Citizens Police Academy graduate, and Neighborhood Watch block captain.

He was a Life Member of the American Legion and the Disabled American Veterans. He was a member of the Albert Pike, St. Alban-Birmingham, and St. Florian 911 Masonic Lodges. He was also a member of the Scottish Rite of Washington, DC.

Tom was very active in the Beltsville Community with the Boys Club, Junior and Senior Teen Clubs, assistant Scout Master and Merit Badge counselor.

He was the safety chairman for the Beltsville Junior and High Point Senior High Schools.

Tom was an instructor for the American Red Cross for CPR and First Aid. He was a civil defense coordinator and past president of the Beltsville Citizens Association.

He was an active member of the Emmanuel United Methodist Church in Beltsville and Sound United Methodist Church in Selbyville, Delaware.

Tom is survived by his two sons, Wayne G. Collins and Kerry P Collins (Starla); and nieces, June Presti and Claudette Hoover.

He was also cherished by many grand, great-, and great-great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of over 71 years, Anne Flo-

Thomas P. Collins

Continued on Page 60

Hale Harrison, business leader, passes at 75

Berlin native remembered for major contributions to growth of resort and county

Ocean City

Hale Harrison, age 75, of Ocean city, passed away Monday, Oct. 17. 2022. He was born in Berlin and was the son of the late G. Hale Harrison and Lois Carmean Harrison.

Hale graduated from Stephen Decatur High School in 1965. He attended the University of Maryland at College Park, where he studied business and agriculture. He was a member of the Phi Delta Theta. After more than three years of college, Hale returned to Ocean City to operate the

OBITUARIES

Continued from Page XX

rence (Flo) Collins; his parents, William G. and Rosetta G. Collins; his son, Steven J Collins; and his two sisters, Elizabeth Oldenberg and Dolly Edwards.

Memorial Services will be held at Sound United Methodist Church in Selbyville, Delaware, on Sunday, Oct. 30 at 12:30 p.m.

Donations may be made in memory of Tom Collins to: National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, P.O. Drawer 498,

family hotel business. From there, he remained active in growing the hotel/restaurant business known today as the Harrison Group Resort Hotels and Restaurants and well as maintaining numerous acres of farmland in Worcester County.

Hale was a former Ocean City Councilman and the former chairman of the Planning and Zoning Commission for the Town of Ocean City. He served for 47 years on the Board of Directors for Calvin B. Taylor Banking Co. and was elected

chairman of the Taylor Bank Board of Directors in 2020.

Hale was proud to declare that he was the youngest to join the Taylor Bank Board of Directors in 1975 and has been the longest to serve. He served on the Atlantic General Hospital Board of Trustees.

He was a member of the Berlin Heritage Foundation, Ocean City Chamber of Commerce as well as a member of the Young Presidents Organization, now known as World Presidents Organization.

Hale is survived by his wife, Alberta Smith Harrison of Ocean City and their son G. Hale Harrison of Berlin. He had two grandchildren, Haven Harrison and Hunter Harri-

son, whom he loved and adored. He is also survived by his brother, John H. Harrison, and his wife, Karen, of Berlin; and his sister, Helen H. Faucette and her husband, Richard, of Ormond Beach Florida. He will be remembered by many cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Arrangements for a memorial service will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation be made to the following charitable organizations: The Worcester County Educational Foundation https://www.wced.foundation or the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation https://www.atlanticgeneral.org/foundation

Emmitsburg, Maryland 21727, www.firehero.org/donate; Sound United Methodist Church, 13051 Muskrattown Road, Bishopville, Maryland 21813; or Amedisys Hospice Foundation, https://www.amedisys.com/about/foun dation/(Select Greeneville, TN).

MAXINE J. SHANK-BROWN

Ocean City

Maxine J. Shank-Brown, 86, of Ocean City, died Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2022.

Maxine was born in Laporte, Indiana on May 31, 1936 to Josephine and Max Komasinski.

Maxine lived her teenage years in Michigan City, Indiana and graduated from Isaac C. Elston High School in 1955. She attended college to fulfill her love of learning.

She was an avid reader of non-fiction throughout her life.

Throughout her life, Maxine was a generous supporter of charities that aim to improve the condition of the

planet and support people who suffer.

She was also a generous hostess who provided her visitors with restaurant-quality meals, stimulating conversation and an unforgettable contagious laugh.

Maxine was a proud Marylander since 1955. She lived in Rockville for 26 years and then moved to Ocean City in 1981.

Her marriage to John J. Shank ended in 1984. She met Mick Brown in Ocean City and they were inseparable for 24 years.

Maxine had real estate licenses in four states, including three brokers licenses. She worked for Moore, Warfield and Glick for most of her real estate career.

Maxine is survived by her son, Daniel F. Shank of Houston, Texas; two grandchildren, John Hiller (Kelli) and Meredith Shank Flowers (Davis); and one great-grandson, George.

Maxine had numerous nieces, nephews and cousins that she enjoyed spending time with. She leaves four step-children and numerous step-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband J. Michael (Mick) Brown in 2009; one daughter, Cynthia Shank Aikens in 2004; her parents and a sister Lorraine Greives.

A celebration of life will be held at noon on Thursday, Oct. 27, 2022, at Lighthouse Sound Restaurant, 12733 St. Martins Neck Road, Bishopville, Maryland 21813.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be sent to Diakonia, 12747 Old Bridge Road, Ocean City, Maryland 21842.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bishophastingsfh.com

Maxine Shank-Brown

Hale Harrison

Sports

Decatur golfers to compete in state championships

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Oct. 21, 2022) Five Stephen Decatur golfers are headed to the state tournament, slated for next week at University of Maryland - College Park.

“This is going to be an interesting year for us. I think we’re still a year away from maybe winning states, but it’s going to be very interesting to see how they handle it because they are familiar with it now, most of them,” said Decatur Coach Dan Stearman.

“They’ve refined their game a little bit more as the year has gone on and I think they won’t be as overwhelmed, so I’m really looking forward to all of them to play on the final day.”

The Seahawks earned a spot in the championship because of their performance during the District VIII tournament, held last Monday at River Marsh Golf Club in Cambridge.

Decatur won the competition, with a score of 335. Kent Island finished in second place with a 355.

The team score advanced the Decatur foursome – junior captains Kole Kohut (80) and Evan Oglesby (82), sophomore Clayton McCabe (85) and freshman Johnny Malinowski (88) – to states.

Sophomore Samantha Boger shot a 91 during the district event, which qualified her as an individual player for states.

“I think this group is capable of playing on the second day and all putting a number up that will get us into the top groupings when the day is over,” Stearman said. “We might not win it, but we’re going to be a team that next year people are going to look back at and go, ‘we need to keep an eye on them,’ and that’s what excites me.”

Three of the five Decatur golfers made their state tournament debut last year.

This will be Oglesby’s second time competing in the championship.

Oglesby said he is both excited and a bit nervous for the big event.

“There’s a little bit of pressure because we’ve got such a good team, but I think we’ll do fine,” he said. “I’m confident going into it. I trust each one of my teammates.”

Recreation

Oglesby said he feels more comfortable competing since he played the course last year.

“We’ve seen the course, so I think we’ll be fine,” he said. “I want to make it to the second day, whether as a team or individual. I try not to put a score in my head. I just need to trust my swing, know I got what it takes and just go out and have fun … knowing once you’re out there you can’t change your swing, you just got to be in the right mindset. Just keep going when you make bad scores.”

This will also be Kohut’s second time going to states.

“I’m more excited then nervous. I was more nervous last year,” Kohut said. “My goal is to make it to the second day, hopefully as a team. I think we can make it as a team as long as we’re in the right mind[set].”

Kohut isn’t shooting for a particular score, he just wants to do his best.

“I just need to keep my head in the right place and focus on myself and don’t worry about anything around me,” he added.

Boger is competing for the second time at states as well.

“I’m probably more excited then nervous, just because last year I got all the nerves out,” she said. “My goal is to play better than I did last year. Last year I shot a 94, so it wasn’t my best performance. Anything lower than that I’ll be happy with.

“I started off bad last year and I just kind of let that get to my head,” she continued. “I just need to stay focused and know that I can still make up for it on holes, and even if I have a

bad hole, my round isn’t over.”

Boger thinks she and her teammates have a really good chance of being successful.

“I think this is one of the best teams to go through Decatur. I just hope we show it at states,” she said.

McCabe is looking forward to his state tournament debut.

“I’m always a little bit nervous, but I’m definitely more excited, [and] I can depend on my teammates,” he said.

McCabe attended the state championships last year to watch his teammates compete, so he is familiar with the course.

“I got to see the course and we’ll get to see the course when we practice there, but I know what to expect now,” he said. “I think if we all break 80 we’ll do great as a team, so that’s kind of what I’m shooting for.”

McCabe said confidence is key.

“If I’m confident where my game is at I’ll play good no matter what,” he said.

Even though Malinowski is a freshman and it is his first season on the Decatur varsity team, he has been playing golf for about 12 years.

“I’m definitely excited, but also nervous because anything can happen,” he said. “I’m happy with what I’ve been able to do this year and I’m hoping I continue that the rest of my high school career.”

Malinowski has walked the course and played on it once, which will be beneficial.

“My goal is to do the best I can and try to make it to day two. I’ve just got

to keep the right mindset and keep working at it for the next [week] and just do the best I can,” he said. “I think we have a great chance at winning this year and I’m going to try my best to help make that happen.”

Stearman said the players complement each other well.

“Its been probably my most enjoyable year coaching that I’ve done since I took over the golf program,” he said. “They’re all individuals and they’re all good as a group. Each of them make up the whole team –one is very mild, one is very aggressive, one is kind of jovial, one is very serious and one is just young … You put them all together and that whole group really makes it fun. It makes it fun for them and it shows in the way they’ve carried themselves all year.”

The players are also very competitive with each other, which only makes them better, the group agreed.

The state tournament will take place Oct. 24-26.

The 3A/4A classification schools will play on Monday. Decatur is in the 1A/2A classification and will compete on Tuesday with the schools in its group.

The top teams and individuals will advance to the final round on Wednesday.

“They’re young – there’s two juniors, two sophomores and a freshman,” Stearman said. “Not that many teams can put that type of youth on a course that they’re not that familiar with and do as well as they’ve done, and they’re only going to get better.”

PHOTO COURTESY DAN STEARMAN

Five Stephen Decatur golfers will participate in the state tournament, slated for next week at University of Maryland - College Park. Competing as a team, from left, are sophomore Clayton McCabe, junior captains Evan Oglesby and Kole Kohut, and freshman Johnny Malinowski. Sophomore Samantha Boger will play as an individual during the championships.

Dan Stearman

GEEZER GOLF

Decatur cross country division champions

Girls’ and boys’ teams edge out competition at Bayside South Division meet Oct. 12

By Lisa Capitelli Managing Editor

(Oct. 21, 2022) The Stephen Decatur girls’ and boys’ cross country teams won the Bayside South Division Championship on their home course last Wednesday.

“I was very pleased with our performance in the Bayside South Division Championship meet,” said Decatur Coach Brenda Hommel.

The Decatur boys’ team scored 40 points to take first place in the six-

school meet. Snow Hill came in second place with 49 points, followed by James M. Bennett with 61.

“Our boys’ team had a lot to celebrate with a win over both Snow Hill and Bennett, who have historically been our rivals in the Bayside South,” Hommel said.

The top five finishers for the Seahawks were: junior Ethan Justice (second, 18:52.84), freshman Todd Haley (sixth, 20:50.33), sophomore Liam Hughes (ninth, 21:32.03) and seniors Evan Justice (11th, 21:56.86) and Nick Moreno (12th, 21:59.41).

“Ethan Justice led the boys’ team coming in second place overall, but it

was the effort put forth by the entire varsity team that made the difference in the meet,” Hommel said. “Every boy on the varsity team improved their hill times and ran more strategically in terms of scoring the lowest score possible to benefit the team. This level of teamwork is what we will need to see from our boys’ team when we compete in the Bayside Championship meet.”

The Lady Seahawks’ scored 15 points in the victory. To record a team score, five runners must cross the finish line for their school. Decatur was the only school to record a team score.

Junior Macy Woroniecki won the

Beckelman named Pines golf pro

Association hired former assistant to take over after two previous stints at club

(Oct. 21, 2022) Ocean Pines Association has announced the hiring of Bob Beckelman as the new golf pro for the Ocean Pines Golf Club.

Beckelman grew up in Annapolis and West Chester, Pennsylvania, and studied aerospace engineering at Penn State University.

He’s been a Professional Golfers’ Association member for 25 years and has lived on the Eastern Shore for the last 35 years.

Beckelman started his professional golf career at the Ocean Pines Golf Club, first from 1992 to 1997, and then returning from 2000 to 2007.

“I was hired here originally as an

assistant under Buddy Sass, and then left to help build the Deer Run Golf Club, and then came back as the head golf professional in Ocean Pines,” he said.

Beckelman said “a phone call” brought him back to Ocean Pines for a third time.

Golf Club, I enjoyed the golf community so much, I planned on working my way up the ladder and eventually finishing my career here,” Beckelman continued. “There’s been some changes along the way, but it’s still my plan – I started here, and I want to finish here.”

girls’ race, completing the course in 22:42.51.

Sophomore Amber Marshall finished in second place with a time of 23:29.75, followed by sophomores Clarice Piela (sixth, 27:16.46), Alessandra Fernandez (ninth, 27:46.85) and Chloe Resnick (11th, 29:52.28).

“Our girls’ team took first place, led by Macy Woroniecki and Amber Marshall performed strong as expected, with nearly every varsity runner showing marked improvement in their times on our home course,” Hommel said.

Decatur will join the other Bayside school for the conference championship meet on Wednesday at 2 p.m. in Cambridge.

Youth golf tourney reset for Nov. 4, registration open

Ocean Pines General Manager John Viola said he’s happy to have Beckelman back.

(Oct. 21, 2022) The Tee Off for Youth Golf Tournament and Fundraiser at the Ocean City Golf Club has been rescheduled to Friday, Nov. 4, beginning at 11 a.m.

Bob Beckelman

“Honestly, when I first got into the golf business, I loved it and I enjoyed it so much,” he said. “I had been around Ocean Pines for a while already. When I was in college, I was working summers at the club, and waited tables and I bartended. I just got to know the people and really loved the community, and I had a lot of friends and built a lot of relationships here.

“Once I started at the Ocean Pines

“I reached out to the Golf Advisory Committee and the golf community, and they all told me this was the right guy for the job,” Viola said. “He obviously, knows the club and he knows the community. We’re happy to welcome him back and I think he’s going to be a great addition to the team.”

For more information on the Ocean Pines Golf Club, visit www.oceanpinesgolf.org.

Registration will remain open until Monday, Oct. 31. The cost to participate is $80 per golfer, and all proceeds generated by this event will benefit underprivileged youth who participate in Worcester County Recreation and Parks youth programs, leagues, after school activities, and summer camps.

For more information, contact Tyler Keiser at 410-632-2144 x2505 or email tkeiser@marylandscoast.org.

The Geezer Golf group held its annual banquet on Oct. 5 at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club with 50 members attending plus their guests. Trophies and shirts were awarded to the team that placed first at the championship: Ken Happel, Dave Brzozowski, Don Van Reenan and Barry Eccleston. Many other members received awards for their consistent play throughout the season.