OC Today WWW.OCEANCITYTODAY.COM
OCTOBER 27, 2023
SERVING NORTHERN WORCESTER COUNTY
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School board, law enforcement still at it Dispute over crime reports remains in public eye with dueling public statements By Stewart Dobson Editor (Oct. 27, 2023) The war of words between the Worcester County Board of Education and the county’s state’s attorney and sheriff continued this
week, with the board making public a response to the suggestion by the law enforcement officials that school administrators are suppressing reports of crime in the schools. In an Oct. 23 letter to State’s Attorney Kris Heiser and Sheriff Matt Crisafulli, school board President Todd Ferrante began on a conciliatory note by saying all parties involved have failed to communicate
effectively and that the board “welcomes constructive criticism with a goal of helping improve Worcester County Public Schools.” The full texts of the exchanges appear on page 4
But then, in a reference to a Sept. 21 statement from Heiser and Crisafulli that suggested the schools are glossing over incidents that have threatened the safety of students, he
wrote, “The Board fails to see how engaging in a truth-versus-fiction dialogue through public forums is helpful in maintaining school safety.” Heiser and Crisafulli countered with a statement released Tuesday. “After waiting for over a month to receive any response, it is now abundantly clear that school officials plan to take no meaningful action to reSee SCHOOL Page 4
Wind meeting style not what many hoped Session turns out to be more info, explanations than gathering opinions
HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Commenters prepare to drop their remarks in a box at the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s public meeting on US Wind’s proposed turbine project at Ocean City Elementary School on Tuesday.
Rising insurance costs hit condo associations By Hunter Hine Staff Writer (Oct. 27, 2023) As coastal condominium and cooperative housing associations in Ocean City renew the insurance on their buildings this year, some are seeing the price of plans more than double.
Some are finding it difficult to find an insurer who will even cover a coastal condominium. Local property managers are reporting historic leaps in insurance prices for master plans that cover damages from things such as wind, flooding and other losses for See RISING Page 10
By Hunter Hine Staff Writer (Oct. 27, 2023) Ocean City officials said they were disappointed by the format of a public meeting on Tuesday about the wind energy project that US Wind proposes to build off the Maryland and Delaware coast. The meeting, which was at Ocean City Elementary School, came during a 45-day public comment period regarding the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, or BOEM’s, draft environmental impact statement for US Wind’s three-phased offshore wind turbine project. The comment section’s deadline is Nov. 20. “I think [attendees] were here anticipating that this was going to be an auditorium where everyone had a chance to get up and speak their point of view, whatever their point of view was, ask questions regarding the environmental assessment, and that’s not what it is,” Meehan said at the meeting. People were able to ask questions, See ABSENCE Page 3
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Ocean City Today
32PALM | CAPTAIN’S TABLE | MARLIN MOON | CORALL REEF
OCTOBER 27, 2023
OCTOBER 27, 2023
Absence of public exchange of opinion irks local officials Continued from Page 1 but not in a public speaking format. The meeting room was surrounded by a ring of displays that broke down the information in the environmental impact statement. Each presentation board covered different topics such as offshore wind layouts, export cable routes, potential effects on habitat, birds and marine animals and impacts on fishery populations and landings. Subject matter experts from the bureau stood beside the presentation boards to clarify information for attendees or answer questions. Meehan described it as a charrette-style meeting. Instead of addressing a crowd publicly, as some attendees expected, people were allowed to enter a threeminute verbal statement into the record with a local stenographer or drop a written statement into a collection box. Meehan said he doesn’t believe the two public comment options make up for the absence of a public speaking session. People wanted others to hear what they have to say, he said. “We’ve been dealing with this for the past seven years and for it to come to this when a document as important as the environmental assessment is up for review … (is) very disappointing,” Meehan said. Ocean City Manager Terry McGean said he was encouraged by the turnout, but he too disagreed with the format. “To me, a public meeting is just that, a public meeting. When we have a controversial topic at the city, and we have a City Council meeting, we
let people talk, and sometimes that means the meeting takes a very long time but people have a right to be heard,” McGean said. The city will continue submitting many written comments to BOEM for the duration of the public comment period, McGean said. “The decision-makers ought to be here, and they ought to be here listening to what the people in this room have to say,” McGean said. Jessica Stromberg, the chief of the Environment Branch for Renewable Energy at the Office of Renewable Energy Programs at BOEM, said that BOEM’s mission for the meeting was to answer peoples’ questions about the environmental impact statement to help inform their comments, which could be submitted at the meeting, through mail or online at regulations.gov. “This is an open house-style format, so people have an opportunity to really talk to us (and) understand. We’re here to listen, and we welcome all feedback,” Stromberg said. Meehan said city officials tried to find out what the format of the meeting would be through emails and phone calls for three days, but the city didn’t get an answer until Tuesday morning. “We have more standing on this project than any area of the state and we’re getting less attention than any other area of the state,” Meehan said. The bureau and US Wind representatives claim the construction of the up to 121 turbines, off the coast of Ocean City, will create thousands of jobs and power up to 770,000 homes See WIND Page 6
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Ocean City Today
OCTOBER 27, 2023
STATEMENT FROM STATE’S ATTORNEY, SHERIFF (Oct. 24, 2023) State’s Attorney Heiser and Sheriff Crisafulli are disappointed with the Board of Education’s response to law enforcement’s serious concerns about school and student safety. After waiting for over a month to receive any response, it is now abundantly clear that school officials plan to take no meaningful action to resolve the specific concerns law enforcement detailed for them during their presentation on October 4th. The Sheriff and State’s Attorney now urge the Board to immediately reconsider. The Board’s response does not outline any specific corrective actions the Board or school officials will take to comply with state law, it does not address the specific questions posed
about school safety-related protocols, nor has the Board decided to accept law enforcement’s offer to provide regular updates to ensure they have full and accurate information about crime occurring in the schools. As a result, the Sheriff and State’s Attorney remain concerned that the pattern and practice of minimizing safety concerns, excusing student misconduct without disciplinary action, failing to take precautionary measures to prevent further victimization, and failing to notify school resource deputies and parents about crime in our schools will continue unabated. Unfortunately for the community, but perhaps unsurprisingly, school officials are once again outright deny-
ing that school safety issues exist, even after having been confronted with direct evidence and concrete examples. It appears that school officials are choosing to prioritize the appearance of school safety over actual school safety. As it stands, the often-repeated conclusion of school officials that “schools are safe” doesn’t make it so, and a so-called “task force” comprised of all the same individuals with whom law enforcement has continuously discussed these safety issues for the past 4 years is not likely to suddenly become an effective solution. Law enforcement would, however, be willing to consider participation in a task force with a membership having the demonstrated ability to effect positive
changes within the schools. At this juncture, Sheriff Crisafulli and State’s Attorney Heiser remain dissatisfied with the safety situation in our schools and are actively discussing law enforcement’s options. The Sheriff and the State’s Attorney want to assure the community that school safety remains their utmost priority, and that their efforts in this area will continue undeterred until Worcester County attains the highest standard of safety within the schools. Community updates will be provided by both the Office of the State’s Attorney and Worcester County Sheriff’s Office as they continue to work together to bring transparency and accountability in matters of school safety.
LETTER FROM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION (Oct. 23, 2023) Dear Ms. Heiser and Mr. Crisafulli, I am writing to you on behalf of the Worcester County Board of Education (“Board”) and in response to the issues surrounding school safety raised in your letter dated September 21, 2023. As you know, the Board has met several times in Closed Session to discuss the contents of your letter and your subsequent presentation, as well as the presentation of the Executive Team and the concerns that they have raised. As the Board noted in its public statement on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, after spending hours reviewing and considering all that came before it, the Board concluded that very little could be agreed upon between the Sheriff, State’s Attorney, and our Executive Team (collectively “Partners”). The Board found this to be not only unfortunate, but gravely concerning. Specifically, the Board found that there is a gross failure in effective communication between the Partners and believes, without reservation, that this needs immediate attention and correction. Likewise, the Board is
concerned that misinformation, not only between the Partners, but that has been conveyed to the community, has led to confusion and discontent. The Board believes that all Partners share in some of the responsibility for these sentiments. The Board welcomes constructive criticism with a goal of helping improve Worcester County Public
Schools (“WCPS”), but the Board believes that the time, place, and manner of providing such criticism is a vitally important consideration when matters as delicate as school safety and parental and student rights are at issue. The Board fails to see how engaging in a truth versus fiction dialogue through public forums is helpful in maintaining school safety
and as such, may violate Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1966 (HIPPA), and the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It is, however, important to understand that the See LETTER Page 6
School safety war of words goes on Continued from Page 1 solve the specific concerns law enforcement detailed for them during their presentation on Oct. 4.” This dismissal of the board’s assertions and actions includes its creation of a task force to examine the situation, arguing that the composition of the group renders it ineffective. The state’s attorney and sheriff did say they would accept the board’s invitation to participate on the task force with different membership that “demonstrated [the] ability to effect
positive changes within the schools.” One of the more unusual aspects of the escalating argument between the school board and the state’s attorney and sheriff is that it is being conducted so publicly. When asked if this was an attempt to generate public support for their position, Heiser replied, “I think it’s been very evident that our community does support what we are doing. We’ve received positive emails, calls and messages on social media from parents, teachers and citizens who
want these issues addressed once and for all. That is what we intend to do.” Per Ferrante’s letter, Heiser and Crisafulli have a standing invitation to participate on the school safety task force when the schedule is set. Among other issues to be discussed in that initial session is whether additional staff or other members should be brought into the group. In the meantime, Heiser and Crisafulli have promised to provide community updates as they and the board decide how they will proceed.
OCTOBER 27, 2023
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Ocean City Today
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#1 LISTING AGENT FOR COLDWELL BANKER REALTY MID ATLANTIC REGION WATERFRONT DREAM HOME OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 10AM-1PM This single-family 4BR/4.5BA home with deeded boat slip is located in the sought after community of Heron Harbour Isle. This beautiful home has an open floor plan with a spacious family room with a 2story stone fireplace. The family room flows into the kitchen which has plenty of cabinet space, a center island, breakfast bar and additional 310 S. HERON GULL COURT storage. Off the kitchen is the OCEAN CITY • $2,499,900 dining area where you will love having meals with your family and friends. Off the family room and dining area there is a screened-in porch, perfect for relaxing and enjoying morning coffee. Off the screened-in porch is a deck with a barbecue grill for crab feasts and grilling your favorites. Also on the first level of this home is the spacious primary bedroom with walkin closets and a large bathroom with shower and soaking tub. There’s also a study on the first floor making remote work possible in a nice quiet area. The first level also has another full bath, laundry room and a half bath. On the second level there are three additional bedrooms and two more full baths. This home has lots of room for everyone to visit and there’s also a bonus room over the garage which could be used as a fifth bedroom or game room. The home also has a wrap-around porch, two-car garage and a deeded boat slip. The seller belongs to the Heron Harbour recreation association, which has tennis courts, indoor heated pool, fitness center, sauna, Olympic size outdoor pool, and a kiddie pool. The home is located very close to restaurants, shopping, and the beach. Come take a look today. This home is being offered partially furnished and is ready for your immediate enjoyment. MDW02015676
WATERFRONT WITH BOAT SLIP 2.03 ACRES! Breathtaking 5BR/4.5BA waterfront estate on 2+ acres is coming soon! If you are looking for an incredible home on a beautiful piece of property with breathtaking views overlooking Assateague Island, look no further. This home boasts 6,482 sq.ft. of luxury. The family room 11602 S. HILLS DRIVE • BERLIN MD overlooks the water with $1,699,900 soaring ceilings and a beautiful custom fireplace. The chef's kitchen is amazing, with lots of room for prepping food and enjoying home cooked meals, and the spacious breakfast area is off the kitchen and provides plenty of room for family and friends. The kitchen has lovely granite countertops, a butler's pantry, mini bar, and plenty of cabinets for storage. This home also has a formal dining room and formal living room, perfect gathering space for everyone to enjoy for years to come. The large primary bedroom suite is on the first floor with beautiful views overlooking the water. There are hardwood floors throughout the home. On the second floor you will find four additional spacious bedrooms and three baths, and a home theater/game room. There is also an additional room over the garage with a full bath. Off the back of the home there is a 40'x12' brick patio facing the water, which is perfect for outdoor dining and grilling. This home also comes with a Community Dock area with assigned boat slips. Slip number three is the owners. If you’re tired of the hustle and bustle, but you still want to be close to Ocean City, golf courses, and everything Assateague Island has to offer, this is the perfect home for you. Come take a tour today, put your finishing touches on it, and turn your dream of owning a Waterfront estate into reality.Your family and friends are sure to make memories that last a lifetime here. Come see for yourself. Schedule your showing today and consider making this dream home yours. MLS MDWO2015282
HERON HARBOUR ISLE HOME WITH BOAT SLIP
OCEAN MID-TOWN CONDO
This single-family 4BR/4.5BA home with deeded boat slip is located in the sought after community of Heron Harbour Isle. This beautiful home has an open floor plan with a spacious family room with a 2-story stone fireplace. The family room flows into the kitchen which has plenty of cabinet space, a center island, breakfast bar and additional storage. Off the kitchen is the dining area where you will love having meals with your family and friends. Off the family room and dining area there is a screened-in porch, perfect for relaxing and enjoying morning coffee. Off the screened-in porch is a deck with a barbecue grill for crab feasts and grilling your favorites. Also on the first level of this home is the spacious primary bedroom with walk-in closets and a large bathroom with shower and soaking tub. There’s also a study on the first floor making remote work possible in a nice quiet area. The first level also has another full bath, laundry room and a half bath. On the second level there are three additional bedrooms and two more full baths. This home has lots of room for everyone to visit and there’s also a bonus room over the garage which could be used as a fifth bedroom or game room. The home also has a wrap-around porch, two-car garage and a deeded boat slip. The seller belongs to the Heron Harbour recreation association, which has tennis courts, indoor heated pool, fitness center, sauna, Olympic size outdoor pool, and a kiddie pool. The home is located very close to restaurants, shopping, and the beach. Come take a look today. This home is being offered partially furnished and is ready for your immediate enjoyment. MDW02015676
Professional photos to follow: Come take a look at this spacious 1BR/1BA Ocean Block beauty! This one-bedroom unit is over 700 sq. ft. and is on the ocean block side of coastal highway. This is an elevated building so there's a very nice view from the large deck off the family room. This is your 7704 COASTAL HWY #102 chance to own a slice of Ocean City and make memories that OCEAN CITY • $310,000 will last a lifetime. As you walk in the front door, you’ll be welcomed by the beautiful dining area and kitchen. The family room flows off the kitchen and provides plenty of room for entertaining. There is a large balcony off the family room with access by a glass slider. The bedroom is very large and can accommodate two queen beds. There is one full bath as well. This condo located midtown Ocean City, close to plenty of restaurants, shops, and attractions. Come take a look today and own your slice of Ocean City. This building is professionally managed and has low condo fees. The condo is being sold fully furnished and is ready for your immediate enjoyment. MDWO2015968
304 S. HERON GULL COURT OCEAN CITY • $1,499,900
RESIDENTIAL LOT
DIRECT BAYFRONT OCEAN CITY! Luxury 5BR/6BA/2HBA Bayfront home with pool hits the market! This luxury home has 145 feet of water frontage with direct bay views and offers southern exposure. As you walk in the front door of this lovely home you will immediately fall in love with the attention to details and upgrades throughout. An elegant 733 BRADLEY ROAD • OCEAN CITY foyer with marble flooring $3,200,000 greets you as you enter with your eyes drawn to the beautiful Bayfront views and the swimming pool in the courtyard. On the first level you will find a kitchen designed for access in and out to the pool area with plenty of seating and room for entertaining family and friends. Also on the first floor, you will find a Bay front office or playroom for the kids. This home is complete with a home elevator so either take the spiraling stairs to the second level or take the elevator up to the second level. You will be mesmerized by the amazing Bayfront views and endless sunsets this home offers. There are 6 decks off the home for privacy. On the second level you will find a professional chef’s kitchen complete with large center island, high end appliances and plenty of cabinet space adjoining a beautiful, spacious dining room overlooking the bay. The family room is also complete with a gas fireplace for chilly winter nights, making this the perfect home for year-round living or a vacation home. Also, on this floor, you will find a second office, home theater room, or game room. On the third level you will enjoy waking up to the endless water views from your primary bedroom. The primary bath has custom finishes throughout with extensive tile work. The primary bedroom also has a fireplace for romantic evenings and relaxing. Also on this floor are three additional bedrooms, which are spacious and separated nicely from the primary bedroom. This home is over 6000 ft.² and is one of the few Bayfront homes available on the market. So, if you’re looking for a home at the beach, also offering all the thrill of the day with attention to detail look no further. Come take a look at 733 Bradley Rd. today before it’s sold! MDWO2014714
SINGLE FAMILY HOME OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 2-4PM
OCEAN 2 BR/2BA CONDO OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY NOON-2PM
Stunning 4BR/3BA coastal home with garage in North Ocean City has just been listed! This home is located six blocks from the beach and across the street from Fiesta Park, which has walking trails and a pavilion. After walking through a gracious covered front porch, you are welcomed into this fabulous home. The first level of this beautiful home has two spacious bedrooms, one full bath and a den/study area perfect for working remotely from home. Beautiful hardwood floors lead to the second level where you will find a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops and stainless-steel appliances. There is a bright and airy dining room directly off the kitchen where you will enjoy making family meals and memories that last a lifetime. Adjoining the kitchen and dining room is a spacious family room with impressive cathedral ceilings. The second level also has the primary bedroom and the primary bath with shower and soaking tub. The second level also has a 12x16 composite deck with vinyl railings. On the third level you’ll find the fourth bedroom and another full bath. The fenced back and side yards have lots of grass for the dogs and kids to play. There is also a patio and grilling area. The home is being sold furnished and ready for your immediate enjoyment. The home also has a garage and multiple additional parking spaces and street parking. Come take a look at this very rare find before it’s sold! MDW02016242
Stunning 2BR/2BA condo one back from the beach hits the market! This condo is located on 66th street in an ocean block building. The sellers have made many recent upgrades, installing luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, new microwave, new refrigerator, new stove, new dishwasher, new exterior HVAC unit, toilets and kitchen faucet within the last three years. The decks also were tiled in 2019 and the glass sliders leading to the deck were also replaced within the last five years. This would make a great second home or investment property and is being sold fully furnished and ready for your immediate enjoyment. This is one of the best values at the beach - fully furnished and only one back from the ocean. As you walk through the front door, you will see an inviting living room for entertaining family and friends. There is a dining area off the kitchen with glass sliders leading to a huge covered deck with recently tiled floor. You can hear the waves break from the deck. This is a first floor unit but it's an elevated building so the height off the street is equivalent to a second floor unit. This condo has two large bedrooms and two full baths so there's plenty of room for family and friends. The condo is in walking distance to many restaurants, stores, shops and a supermarket, so once you're here you don’t have to move your car, but the condo is conveniently located to the route 90 bridge, making coming and going a joy. Come take a look today before this amazing property is sold. This condo association is well managed by Mann Properties. MLS MDWO2016172
4111 FIESTA RD OCEAN CITY • $739,900
COMMERCIAL
COMMERCIAL
WATERSIDE DRIVE BERLIN • $475,000 Are you looking to build your dream home? Look no further than this beautiful residential lot in the community of South Point Farms. This beautiful building lot is in a prime location on the corner with beautiful bay views. The lot is approximately 2.76 acres and it’s located off 611 in Berlin Maryland. At the entrance of South Point Farms is a public boat ramp and public pier with water access for boating fishing, crabbing, paddle boarding, and kayaking. If you are looking for a peaceful, tranquil location with unbelievable Bay views this is the prime spot. There are multiple world-class golf courses close by and Assateague National and State Park as well for days on the beach. No builder tie in required. Come take a look today and enjoy the good life on South Point Farms! MDWO2014122 OCEAN PINES
32 FORT SUMTER S. THE PARKE @ OCEAN PINES $389,000 Absolutely Stunning home in The Parke at Ocean Pines hits the market! This home has 3BR/2BA with one level living.As you walk to the front door, you’ll be welcomed with a beautiful array of flowers leading to a nicely covered porch area. When you enter this well-kept home, you will see a bright airy table space kitchen with plenty of cabinets, perfect for having friends and family over for dinner. As you walk down the hall there are two bedrooms and a full bath. Continuing down the hallway you enter the living area which opens to the back yard. Off the living area is the beautiful primary bedroom suite with another full bath. Then there is a fullsize laundry room with washer and dryer and a very convenient oversize garage. This home is located in the awardwinning community of The Parke, a 55 and older community in Ocean Pines. The Parke has a fitness center, library, sauna, nature trails, clubhouse, indoor pool and billiard room. So there are plenty of activities to enjoy. This home has been meticulously maintained. The HVAC was replaced in 2023, new carpet was also recently installed as was a new dishwasher in 2022. This home is shown by appointment only, so please schedule your appointment today for a tour and make this beautiful home a reality. MDWO2016462
34862 WEST LINE RD SELBYVILLE, DE • $2,500,000 Commercial Site in Prime Location hits the Market! 2.36 acres on the corner of RT 54 and W. Line Rd in Selbyville DE. This location is directly across from Yellowfins Restaurant and shopping center on heavily traveled Rt 54. The location is approximately 3-4 miles to the beaches of Ocean City & Fenwick Island. It has water and 8' sewer main that will supply a hotel, shopping center, office complex, medical center, professional center, etc. Lot is cleared. Buy it Now Before It's SOLD!!! Owner Financing is available. MLS DESU184528 LAND
1303 MCHENRY COURT BERLIN • $120,000 Why not build? There's nothing like building the house of your dreams! Large cul-de-sac (11,566 Sqft.) home site in the very desirable Colonial Village location in Ocean Pines. Close to the Yacht Club, Yacht club pool and marina and Mumford's Landing Pool, and located only a few miles from Ocean City’s famous beaches. Ocean Pines is an amenity rich community w/restaurants, shops, tennis, recreational facilities, golf, ball fields, pickleball courts, basketball court, playground, 12 parks, 6 trails, indoor and outdoor pools, 2 marinas, beachfront beach club at 49th Street in Ocean City, and the farmer's market. There is also police protection, fire protection and excellent management. MLS MDWO2008616
1 66TH ST UNIT 101 OCEAN CITY • $535,000
32474 LIGHTHOUSE RD SELBYVILLE, DE • $4,500,000 Prime commercial location in Selbyville of 10.09 acres. This is a rare commercial development opportunity on the busy intersection of Lighthouse Sound Rd. (Route 54) and Hudson Rd. There are already many existing new homes surrounding this property and more than 3,200 additional homes are coming soon. This is the perfect location for a shopping center, multiple smaller retail businesses, and/or medical or other professional offices to serve these homes and the entire Selbyville, Bayside, Fenwick, Ocean City area. The Seller will finance up to 70% of the purchase price at 1 percent below the current prime lending rate for up to 5 years. The property is located 8 miles from the beach! DESU2044978
THIS HOME IS A SHOW-STOPPER!
10615 POINT LOOKOUT ROAD OCEAN CITY • $5,599,900 JUST REDUCED! $4,899,900 Custom 6BR/6BA/3HBA/ new construction west facing bayfront estate designed and built by David Bradley of Bradley Construction w/ views of both Assawoman Bay and skyline from the property’s L-shaped pool and swim-up bar. Features exceptional craftsmanship w/astute attention to detail, custom finishes/woodwork, and architectural details. A welcoming orange crush bar made w/Port Rush quartz and 1st-floor Den/bedroom ensuite complete w/Murphy bed. Expansive family room has a wall of windows and glass sliders overlooking the bay. Gourmet chef's kitchen just off family room includes plenty of bar seating w/endless bay views. Kitchen boasts GE monogram ss appliances including 6-burner gas range, expansive center island, custom farm sink, w/vegetable sink, hone marble and quartz countertops. White custom Fabuwood cabinets w/undercounter lighting, appliance garages and custom pull outs for easy storage. Floating shelves in kitchen made w/reclaimed wood, and a designer tile backsplash. An expansive butler’s pantry, mud room w/custom shelving, laundry room, half bath on the main floor. White oak stairs, and custom-made glass elevator. 2nd floor spacious ensuite Bayfront bedrooms, each w/its own private balcony. A 4th ensuite bedroom which has been designed as a bunk room w/custom bunk and trundle bed complete w/a port hole. A coffee bar, refrigerator, and full-size laundry on 2nd floor. 3rd floor primary bedroom ensuite w/bay views, cathedral ceilings, turret cupola, coffee bar, fireplace, exquisite tile work, two enormous closets w/wood detailing and shiplap, and expansive covered porch. Primary bath has insulated tub w/jets and faces the bay w/a 6’x6’ circular Anderson window. Bonus room w/soaring ceilings and cupola; separate refrigerator, bar seating, a private deck, half bath, and laundry. A saltwater pool and spa, cabana area complete w/2 outdoor TVs, 2 refrigerators, custom cabinetry/countertops, fire pit area, permits for three lifts and a transient boat, a 50ft pier, dock and ramp. Parking for 6 cars. MLS MDWO2012190
COMMERCIAL
TAXID 533-17.00-156.07
S ROUTE 54 SELBYVILLE, DE $890,000 Commercial land 3.94-acre prime location served by water and sewer from Selbyville. This land is across from the new development of Coastal Villages. 1,000 feet of road frontage. Also available for sale is Tax ID 533-17.00-156.04 which has 7.29 acres for $490,000 (MLS- DESU2028756) this has a density of 16 lots. Both pieces are served by water and sewer in Selbyville. OWNER FINANCING IS AVAILABLE! Come take a look today before it's SOLD! MLS DESU2028754
THINKING OF BUYING OR SELLING? LET'S CONNECT TO BEGIN THE PROCESS TODAY! The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate 2023 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor agents and are not employees of the Company. ©2015 a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International and the Previews logo are registered and unregistered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. 10771BALT_07/15
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OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
LETTER FROM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION Continued from Page 4 majority of the Board found that WCPS schools are safe, and that our Executive Team works tirelessly to maintain the safety of our schools, students, faculty, and staff. The Board agrees that the Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) between the Sheriff’s Office and WCPS needs be followed. Given the date of your letter of September 21st, the Board notes that the MOU was in effect for a total of 12 school days. The Board further agrees that the training on the MOU and the obligations thereunder that was provided to the school administrators by the Sheriff’s Office and the Executive Team was and remains critically necessary. The Board found, however, that the Executive Team/WCPS is not the only Partner that has failed to meet every expectation of the implementation of the MOU and looks forward to a time when all Partners can comply. The Board appreciates the commitment that was offered in your letter to bring all Partners’ “best combined efforts forward to eliminate crime within our schools and demonstrate to our community that student safety remains true priority for all of us.” To that end, the Board believes that the establishment of the
School Safety Task Force (“Task Force”) is the best next step to achieve that goal. The Task Force will be an additional tool to help all Partners work together in the level of partnership that was described in your September 21, 2023, letter. We invite you both to immediately and actively participate in the Task Force. Our Board members who have volunteered to serve (Elena McComas, Katie Addis, and Bill Gordy) are already at work on a proposed agenda and are anxious to begin. As you heard in the Board’s public statement, in addition to yourselves, and our Board Members, the Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor and/or Chief Safety Officer Annette Wallace will be members of the Task Force, and at least initially, our Board Attorney will also be present at Task Force meetings to assist in the facilitation of each meeting. The Board believes that the purpose of the Task Force should be the following, but welcomes suggestions regarding further goals and objectives from both of you: Initially work through the real and substantive issues contained within the two presentations made to the Board, so any uncertainty and misunderstanding can be eliminated and opportunities for improvement can
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be implemented; and Help facilitate and effectuate strong communication between all Partners and serve as an avenue to discuss and relay concerns that might exist on an ongoing basis; Provide educational opportunities from subject matter experts on the nuances of Maryland school law and the applicable Federal law that govern certain classifications of students and limits and restrictions that exist with school discipline; Serve as a liaison to the Board and keep it informed as to all matters concerning school safety; Make recommendations to the Board as it may see fit; Shortly following this letter, you will receive an email with dates and times for the initial meeting. The initial meeting will be vital to firmly establishing the goals and procedures of the Task Force, determining whether additional staff/Partners should be invited to join the Task Force, and to begin work on matters that not only need to be resolved, but also for all Partners to gain a clear un-
derstanding of what specific improvements are needed from each Partner moving forward. After a date and time for the initial meeting is established, the Task Force will circulate the draft agenda and our Task Force members welcome your input on additional agenda items that should be a priority at the initial meeting. We trust that moving forward all Partners share the same objective – to work in partnership, with honest and clear communication, and to do anything that is necessary to maintain a safe learning environment for students, faculty, and staff. We now must find a way to move forward together, and you have the commitment of this Board that it intends to do so efficiently and productively. We hope that the Board has your commitment as well. Thank you for your time and attention. Sincerely, Todd A. Ferrante President, Worcester County Board of Education
Wind opponents disappointed Continued from Page 3 across the region. Many Ocean City officials, residents and local businesses oppose the project, citing concerns about the potential impacts on sea life, habitat, recreational fishing and property values. Informational signs at the Tuesday meeting confirmed that the proposed wind farm off the coast would be visible from Maryland and Delaware shores, something that some Ocean City residents and officials fear might affect property values. The Town of Ocean City even went as far as previously creating their own renderings of how the turbines might be visible from shore, McGean said. Ocean City officials have hired an environmental consultant to review
the US Wind plans and directed them to dive into the environmental impact statement. Tuesday’s meeting was one of two in-person meetings meant to inform the public on the findings of the impact statement and welcome public comments. The second in-person meeting was held at Indian River High School in Dagsboro, Delaware on Oct. 26. There are also two virtual meetings, one of which was held on Oct. 19. The second virtual meeting is on Oct. 30 at 5 p.m. The virtual meetings will include a question and answer session and a public comment session since online meetings aren’t conducive to one-onone discussions, Stromberg said. “We encourage people to comment by the deadline,” Stromberg said.
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Ocean City Today
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OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
Five OC businesses try out digital tram ads City launched free pilot program during Sunfest to show how technology looks By Mallory Panuska Managing Editor (Oct. 27, 2023) As crowds trekked along the Ocean City Boardwalk taking in the sights and sounds of Sunfest last weekend, many likely noticed the fleet of trams displaying some new, flashy ads. In an effort to showcase the full capabilities of the new technology that transit ad contractor Gateway Advertising floated as a potential moneymaker at the beginning of the season, the city launched a pilot program that allowed local businesses to display advertisements for free over the weekend. Previously, the screens, when they worked, contained only city house ads. But for Sunfest, five outside businesses were on display. “The five ad clients who opted into the pilot program were Uptown Cheapskate, Guido’s Burritos, Oceanfront Rentals, Barrio Taco, and our local McDonald’s franchisee,” Transit Manager Rob Shearman said in an email earlier his week. “From my perspective, the ads were visually stunning, particularly one which had
PHOTO COURTESY TOWN OF OCEAN CITY
Digital ads are displayed on the backs of Boardwalk trams parked in the garage during Sunfest. The ads flashed on the screens throughout the weekend.
some background motion which was really eye-catching.” Members of the Transportation Committee expressed concerns about the screens earlier this summer after there were snags getting them up and running. Once the technical bugs were worked out, the season was nearly over and staff said the contractor was unable to make any money off the ads, prompting committee mem-
bers to offer the pilot program. Shearman said he has reached out to Gateway officials to find out what type of feedback advertisers had from last weekend’s ads and whether any interest was sparked to potentially buy space next season. He added that the technical delivery was not perfect, though. “We did observe a couple of the signs exhibit occasional partial out-
ages,” he said. Gateway has until the end of the year to generate $200,000 in revenue for the city from transit ads to meet a contract promise. If the money is not raised, the company will owe the city the difference. At the last Transportation Committee meeting in mid October, Shearman reported that the total was just under the $200,000 goal.
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Ocean City Today
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Ocean City Today
OCTOBER 27, 2023
Rising insurance expenses more extreme further south
HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Local property managers are reporting sharp increases in condo and housing association insurance plans this year. Pictured is a downtown condo next to a “Flood Area” sign.
Continued from Page 1 condominiums along the coast this year. The trend follows several consecutive years of losses and major claim filings that are forcing many insurance companies to reduce their risk exposure and increase revenue. Master plans cover the entire building or all the shared resources for an association and are paid for by all members through fees. These plans are different from personal unit coverage, which covers everything inside a resident’s unit and is paid for independently. While the insurance increases in Ocean City aren’t as bad as in states such as Florida and the Carolinas, which have much greater risk exposure to storms and hurricanes, it’s
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still enough to force some associations to increase their insurance budgets substantially and thus raise condo fees on association members to fund it, according to Igor Conev, CEO of Mann Properties. Mann Properties manages around 116 properties in the region, most of them in and around Ocean City. Conev said he recently has seen an average 40 percent increase in cost for multi-peril insurance to cover housing associations managed by his company Multi-peril insurance is a plan that covers several types of losses. Some insurance renewals for associations Mann manages have gone up as much as 150 percent, and Conev said insurers have advised him to expect another approximately 40 percent price hike for next year. Conev said that over the last two years, about four insurance companies that had written policies for buildings in the resort have stopped altogether. “Typically, insurance companies lose money for up to three years and (then) they’ll have easy years, make some money, but (for) the last seven years they’ve continued to lose money year after year,” Conev said. One of the big factors in insurance price increases is that - because of inflation - insurance companies have had to increase the replacement value of buildings. On top of that, with major storms on the coast over the last few years, as well as other natural disasters nationally, or even globally, insurers have had more claims to pay. In 2022, the U.S. had 18 separate natural disasters with damages going over $1 billion each, according to a 2023 report called “Commercial Property & Casualty Market Outlook Mid-Year Addendum,” by USI, a consulting company for – among other things – property and casualty insurance. “There will be prolonged pressure on (insurance) pricing, deductibles and a strain on capacity with the frequency and severity of these storms,” according to the report. U.S. properties that are more exposed to potential catastrophes have had insurance rates go up 25-150 percent for mid-year 2023, according to the report. This does not refer to coastal properties alone. Even properties that are not considered exposed to catastrophes, but have had a poor loss history, have seen the similar increases over the same period, according to the report. Premiums for coverage like wind, flooding and other damages, which pose more of a risk to a coastal building, have therefore gone up. One 28-unit condo in Ocean City that’s managed by Mann Properties was paying about $39,000 a year for
OCTOBER 27, 2023
PAGE 11
Ocean City Today
‘Every coastal community is dealing with this issue’ coverage in 2014, Conev said. By 2022, the account’s multi-peril insurance budget went up to around $60,000, and this year it went up to over $80,000. The condo’s multiperil insurance budget for 2024 is set to be $115,000, which is based on expected increases next year, Conev said. Deductibles have also increased. For something like wind coverage, insurers a year ago would impose a deductible that was about one percent of the building’s value, which a housing association would have to pay on a claim, Conev said. Associations often do a “buy down,” or take out another insurance plan to cover most of that deductible. “If you had a $20 million building, and it came with a one percent, that’s $200,000 deductible, so you buy that down to a more reasonable number that you can cover with your reserve (money),” Conev said. In December of last year, some wind insurers increased the deductible to two percent, so now the premiums some associations are paying to cover most of the wind deductible have nearly doubled, Conev said. Conev said he has been warned that this coming year, the two percent deductible might become three percent. The buildings facing the highest risk include older buildings that haven’t had any upgrades, buildings near the ocean, and especially condos with wood frames or those that are valued at over $25 million, he said. More than previously, insurance companies are mandating building inspections prior to insurance renewals and setting requirements for items that need fixing, Conev said. “I’m hoping that it will stabilize pretty soon … and hopefully, for the next three years, have a lower number of losses around the world and really get better, but unfortunately this may be here for a while,” Conev said. The cost of reinsurance, which is insurance that helps cover insurance companies, is also skyrocketing, said J.D. Russell, who is the founder of HPS Management. HPS manages over 400 community associations in Maryland and Delaware, with “quite a few condominiums,” around Ocean City and West Ocean City. Russell is also the CEO of InfoHOA, a consulting company for HOA’s and property managers. “The risk categories that insurance companies are coming into there, in the reinsurance market, are making it very difficult for them to insure anything that is prone to wind or storm damage,” Russell said. He said this problem is far worse for coastal properties in Florida and North Carolina, where property managers can’t even find wind insurance, especially if the building has had sev-
eral losses. When they do find insurance, it usually isn’t affordable for the community, Russell said. “Every coastal community is dealing with this issue. It’s not unique to Ocean City,” Russell said. When 50-60 percent of an association’s revenue goes to cover wind and floor insurance, and those insurance markets are becoming evermore expensive, an association has to start tapping into reserve funds, Russell said. Some associations don’t have strong enough reserves to fund it, he said. “The homeowners are going to be the ones that are going to have to pay for the increased insurance. They’re either going to pay in their regular assessment or a special assessment. (There are) no other means in Maryland or Delaware that I am aware of
presently that exists to assist associations for meeting those requirements,” Russell said. Assessments are an industry term for fees. Russell believes that states likely don’t have the funds to help offset the costs even if they wanted to through legislation. He said intervention would have to come from the federal level to support coastal condo owners. “There’s really no end in sight,” Russell said. Russell said that in order to move forward, associations and property managers will have to work on planning, maintaining and budgeting if they want to “weather this storm for the next couple of years.” Cynthia Mooney is the president of Shore Management, a company that
manages several condo associations in Ocean City, including La Mirage on 61st Street, Ocean Hideaway on 18th Street and the Solara on 64th Street. Mooney said that the buildings that are getting hit the hardest with insurance price hikes are older, more prone to water damage, or have had water damage claim in the past. Water damage creates the biggest insurance claims, she said, and it’s usually from malfunctioning utilities like hot water heaters rather than storm-related flooding. In all her years managing in Ocean City, Mooney said that Shore Management’s clients only ever had flood insurance claims during Hurricane Sandy in 2012. “It’d be nice to blame it on insurance companies, but you can’t. A lot See INSURANCE Page 12
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OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
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By Remy Andersen Staff Writer (Oct. 27, 2023) The hopes of transforming an old storage warehouse in Snow Hill to a commercial use facility were dashed when the Worcester County Commissioners voted 4-2 last week against a rezoning request from Blackwater Relics. The request was to rezone the property, off of Market Street and just north of Moat Road in Snow Hill, from an agricultural use to commercial. Commissioners Chip Bertino, Madison Bunting, Caryn Abbott and Eric Fiori rejected the request. Currently, an 11,200 square-foot storage warehouse resides on the 1.79-acre property, taking up about .78 acres of the total district set to be rezoned. Howard and Amy Kelley, owners of Blackwater Relics Antique Store in Pocomoke, were looking to turn the property into a new location for their business. Hugh Cropper, the attorney for Kelley, said the reason for the rezoning was due to a mistake in the original 1992 rezoning of the property from general business to agricultural. The original property owner asked to rezone the property to residential, which was approved by the commissioners at the time. The property was
REMY ANDERSEN/OCEAN CITY TODAY
A warehouse, pictured, off Market Street in Snow Hill had been used for agricultural storage. The Worcester County Commissioners rejected a request last week to rezone the 1.79-acre property for commercial use.
not accounted for in a 2009 comprehensive rezoning, as it was annexed into the town in 2006. After it was de-annexed from the town in 2019, Cropper requested that the residential classification be unchanged, but instead the property reverted back to an agricultural classification. When Cropper presented the rezoning request from agricultural to commercial to the planning commission, the commissioners agreed that rezoning it to agricultural created an unsuitable lot for agricultural uses. They also recommended that the 1.01 acres adjoining the .78-acre property
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be used to accommodate parking. Generally, commercial districts take on the form of retail or office space, and provide services to populations of about 3,000 or more, with greater parking demand and higher visibility. The areas should be compatible with the community and the overall character of the county. Cropper argued that the new Blackwater Relic business would serve the Town of Snow Hill well and enhance the community. He also said that no traffic issues on Market Street would be created with the new business moving in. Cropper also said the property was in line with the comprehensive site plan presented to the planning commission, and that it was located in a growth area, meaning the property has room to expand. Just north of the area are other properties zoned as commercial by the Town of Snow Hill. The directly adjoining areas of property are zoned agricultural on the east side of Market Street, and residential on the west side. The commissioners did not give a direct reason as to why they rejected the rezoning request.
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Continued from Page 11 of this is natural causes, and it’s also the items that people aren’t maintaining (in) their units and you have these perils that just add up after a while,” Mooney said. Shore Management accounts have seen insurance price increases at around 30-50 percent this year, Mooney said. She said that the insurance hikes are not only coastal, but more of a national problem. “A lot of times it all does feel like it’s more coastal that you’re having a lot of these issues but it’s not,” Mooney said. “Everybody’s paying for all these bills.”
OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
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OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
Midtown beach franchise auction set Dec. 6 (Oct. 27, 2023) The franchise owners who will be selling umbrellas, chairs and cabanas on the beach spanning Ocean City’s midtown streets will be putting in bids for the contracts in the coming weeks. Last week, City Council members unanimously voted to auction off 10 beach equipment franchise parcels from 28th to 84th streets at 10 a.m., Dec. 6. According to a staff report, the section has a total of 18 parcels, eight of which were first-term contracts renewed for second three-year terms. The city has a total 70 beach equipment franchise parcels divided into the southern, middle and northern sections of town. Each year, the parcels in one of the sections come up for renewal or auction and this year it’s the mid section. The highest qualified bidder for each parcel receives a three-year contract to be the only operator selling beach equipment in that section. The city’s code provides one option for first-term contract renewals at an annual fee of 10 percent more than the initial term. The auction will be advertised for three weeks beginning Nov. 10 and the bid packet will be posted online. The minimum bid for each parcel is $500, but the amounts vary depending primarily on location.
FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Dozens of umbrellas and tents line the beach between 57th and 59th streets on a hot summer day. An auction to award franchises for 10 of the 18 parcels along the midtown section of Ocean City is officially set for Dec. 6.
WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONER BRIEFS By Remy Andersen Staff Writer (Oct. 27, 2023) The Worcester County Commissioners discussed the following at their meeting last Tuesday:
Black-Eyed Susan The commissioners approved the full repayment of $300,000 by the Town of Snow Hill for the Black-Eyed Susan riverboat.
The riverboat was originally purchased in 2020 through a $400,000 loan to the Town of Snow Hill from the county. In 2022, it was discovered through a routine maintenance check that $600,000 worth of repairs had to be made. Tow officials decided the expense was too hefty for taxpayers to pay and decided to sell the boat. On Oct. 10, the town agreed to sell the boat to Henry Wright, owner of the River House Inn in Snow Hill, for $75,000.
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The commissioners voted to pay a little more than $44,500 for heating fuel oil costs at the Worcester County Jail. The expense was over budget in Fiscal Year 2023. The actual expense for heating fuel oil was more than $259,100, which was over budget by over $74,100. Funds from other underspent line
items were able to offset about $29,500 of the total, having the more than $44,500 to cover. The budget did not take into account the current rising costs of fuel and instead was based on how fuel costs have risen in the past. The Worcester County Jail anticipates another expense of $59,128 over budget in heating fuel oil in fiscal 2024.
Basketball Court Repair The renovation of the basketball court at Picomole Middle School can now advance, after the commissioners voted to send bid documents to their Snow Hill office. The renovation funds were previously approved by Program Open Space, for $320,000. The money will be 90 percent reimbursable, with the other 10 percent the responsibility of the county. Continued on Page 16
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Ocean City Today
Commissioners send support letter for room tax increase By Remy Andersen Staff Writer (Oct. 27, 2023) In a unanimous decision made by the Worcester County Commissioners last Tuesday, a letter of support to allow the county raise the state room tax from 5 to 6 percent can now be sent to state government officials. Lobbyist Paul Ellington, who represents State and Local Advisors, addressed the commissioners at the meeting discussing the state’s plans for the upcoming General Assembly. One of the items that will be brought up, he said, would be the next attempt to pass the state room tax. He remains optimistic that this time, the raising of the tax by a penny will actually follow through. “We have reason to believe that we [State and Local Advisors] have done some work in the offseason,” Ellington said. “Ocean City has done exten-
sive work, as have the legislators, and I do believe that it will have a chance, every chance of passing this session.” Ellington also said that while he understood that there were people who opposed the measure, he believes that this time, the president of the Senate has indicated that it will not be an issue. The raising of the state room tax has been an ongoing effort since 2021, but would be beneficial to the Ocean City area, as it would bring in more city revenue from tourist stays. The commissioners’ ultimate approval of the increase is the second step of the process. The first step is changing the law that restricts the room tax rates in the state’s four code counties — Worcester, Caroline, Kent, and Queen Anne’s — at the state level. Code counties operate in the same See EFFORTS Page 16
Correction In the Oct. 20, 2023, edition in an article about Ocean City condos facing new bills due to HB 107, Maryland’s reserve study law, it was incorrectly stated that Mann Properties manages 160 properties on the Eastern Shore. Mann Properties manages 116 properties on the Eastern Shore.
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©2023 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire HomesServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity.
PAGE 16
OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
Efforts to increase room tax rate set to continue in 2024 Continued from Page 15 manner as charter counties such as Wicomico, Montgomery and Baltimore counties when it comes to enacting, revising and repealing laws. However, with code counties, statelevel legislation cannot be taken up for a single county. In this instance, state constitution requires that all four code counties must send letters of permission to the state to raise the room tax. In 2022, after an effort was made through a request from the Town of Ocean City to enable the passing of the room tax legislation, state officials discovered that Worcester still needed to acquire
the letters from the other three code counties. In the 2023 legislative session, a new bill was brought back to the code counties that would have allowed each of them to raise the room tax. However, while the bill passed at the House and received a favorable recommendation from a Senate committee, it ultimately failed on the Senate floor. Ocean City’s City Manager, Terry McGean, has said that Mayor Rick Meehan and the city’s lobbyist have been working with state officials since the 2023 session ended to improve the bill’s chance for success in 2024.
WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONER BRIEFS Continued from Page 14
Construction Manager
FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
The Madison Beach Motel is pictured on Baltimore Avenue.
The construction of the new Picomole library can advance with a new service approved by the commissioners. The creation of the service entails that the construction manager operates the project within a set maximum price, with construction documents and specifications set forth by the
price. The construction manager will regularly share details regarding design, development and construction of the library and must make sure costs of construction do not go over the max price. The manager will also work with the construction team to create bid documents for the commissioners, in order to ensure the project doesn’t go over the commissioners’ budget.
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Ocean City Today
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OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
Ocean City adopts new police policy manual Document created to meet requirements in 2021 bill, code amendment to follow By Mallory Panuska Managing Editor (Oct. 27, 2023) New policies on everything from body worn cameras to public video surveillance are officially on the books for the Ocean City Police Department following approval of a new manual last week. The extensive document, which replaces general orders the department previously followed, was a result of efforts to meet state legislative requirements passed in 2021. Chief Ross Buzzuro and Police Lt. Frank Soscia presented details of the new manual, which they developed with representatives from Lexipol, a national policy development company specializing in public safety, at a meeting on Oct. 10. Last week, council members officially approved the new document. The state legislation called for a thorough review of all Maryland law enforcement agencies’ existing policies and procedures and required recommendations for changes and revisions. To develop the new policy, Lexipol representatives provided input from
MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY
An Ocean City Police car sits parked along Coastal Highway after pulling over a vehicle.
professionals in areas such as constitutional law, civil rights, ADA and discrimination, mental health, use of force, and state-specific law. The consultants will also be able to continually update the policy, if
changes come from the Supreme Court or other avenues, without delays once a proposed city code amendment is passed. The proposed code amendment will allow members of the Police
Commission to approve policy changes monthly and the City Council to approve them annually. Council members passed the first reading of the amendment last week.
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Ocean City Today
PAGE 19
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OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
Worcester County to begin radio encryption for the change is to ensure the safety of all law enforcement in the area, as their movements can be tracked by criminals who have access to police scanners. This recent decision is part of a scheduled update to the Worcester County radio system, managed by Worcester County Emergency Services, that will include the radio channels for all allied law enforcement agencies within Worcester County. Sheriff Matt Crisafulli said his office has already been using various encrypted channels for special oper-
Sheriff hopeful scheduled update will prevent criminal tracking of county deputies By Remy Andersen Staff Writer (Oct. 27, 2023) In the coming months, the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, along with other law enforcement agencies in Worcester County, will begin to implement the encryption of all radio communications. The sheriff’s office said the reason
ations assignments, and the update would follow the current nationwide trend for law enforcement agencies. “My team consulted with subject matter experts on radio encryption,” Crisafulli said. “We spoke in depth about the pros and cons of encryption. After the consultation with the subject matter experts, we also consulted with numerous deputies about encryption. They are overwhelmingly for this and supporting our residents.” He noted that Worcester and Wicomico are the only two remaining
counties on the Eastern Shore of Maryland that do not use encrypted messaging channels. He also said that no cost is associated with the new implementation. “We’re trying to balance the safety of our personnel while continuing to be as transparent as possible,” Crisafulli said. “What’s important for our residents to also know is that all our communications will continue to be recorded and available to our residents via the appropriate channels for release.” See CHANGE Page 22
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PAGE 21
Ocean City Today
OC Volunteer Fire Co. engine named for ‘37 fallen hero By Stewart Dobson Editor (Oct. 27, 2023) There’s no denying the respect firefighters have for each other and anyone who has ever been involved in the fire service, judging from the reverential ceremony Tuesday honoring a former Ocean City fire chief who died in the line of duty ... 86 years ago. Chief Ralph R. Dennis, who lost his life on July 24, 1937, fighting a fire at the George Washington Hotel in Ocean City, was recognized at Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Station 5 in West Ocean City where Engine 701 was rededicated in his memory. The half-hour ceremony recalled more than the circumstances of the chief’s death, which was caused by his inhalation of smoke and fire-fighting chemicals used to extinguish a chimney fire at the six-story hotel. Chief Dennis was one of the founders of the company and was its first assistant chief in 1905. He also served as a delegate to the Maryland General Assembly from 1918 to 1920, and again from 1931 through the 1937 legislative year, and was principal of Ocean City High School. “We don’t give up and we don’t back down, current Fire Chief Richie Bowers said of firefighters in general and of Chief Dennis in particular. “He was that chief who stood up and stood out.” He also credited Chief Dennis as
STEWART DOBSON/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Mary Adeline Bradford, (second from left) granddaughter of Chief Ralph Dennis, stands with her cousins, from left, Jack Hastings, Bo Duke and Debbie Oakley next to Engine 701.
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being “a visionary” for his role in building the foundation on which the volunteer company and fire department were built. Representing the family at the ceremony, Chief Dennis’ granddaughter, Mary Adeline Bradford of Ocean City (and chair of the city’s Board of Election Supervisors) commented on how much she appreciated the recognition of the chief’s devotion to duty. A longtime supporter of the company, Bradford said, “I think the fire department is a special place.”
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PAGE 22
Ocean City Today
OCTOBER 27, 2023
POLICE/COURTS
DUI Paul Yvon Baron, 55, of Berlin, faces 12 charges, including DUI, reckless driving and driving without a license after Ocean City police allegedly found a slew of empty bottles of alcohol in his car, according to a police report. On Oct. 21, around 11 p.m., police went to help another officer with a traffic stop at 73rd Street. The officer who pulled the driver over said it was because the 2015 BMW had been going about 25 mph over the speed limit on Coastal Highway, serving through lanes and driving in the bus lane. Baron, the driver, reportedly didn’t give the officer his license, registration or proof of insurance. Police wrote that Baron looked confused and allegedly turned his BMW on and off during the traffic stop.
Officers searched the car to find six empty wine bottle, one empty bottle of whiskey, nine empty Vodka bottles and one opened bottle of wine. Baron failed sobriety tests and police arrested him. He declined an alcohol breath test.
Urinating on car The OCPD charged Tyler Dee Handley, 24, of Delmar, Delaware, with malicious destruction of property after he allegedly urinated on someone’s car and broke the car’s window, according to a police report. On Oct. 22, around 2 a.m., police went to Coastal Highway near 43rd Street in response to a call about a malicious destruction of property and that the caller had been following a man and two women who had punched his car’s window. Once on the scene, police spoke
with Handley and the caller in a parking lot. The caller and friend told police they saw two men and two women urinating on the caller’s car, which led to a “verbal confrontation,” according to the report. The caller said Handley also punched and damaged his car’s window. The car was on 46th Street, and while police were there taking pictures
of the damaged window, another witness approached them and said they saw Handley urinate on the car and punch the window. Police saw that Handley had blood on his hand, but Handley allegedly denied having anything to do with the incident. Officers arrested Handley. The caller and another witness reportedly confirmed Handley was the suspect.
Change not set to cost anything Continued from Page 20 Crisafulli said that all deputies wear body cameras, so all interactions with the public are audio and visually recorded. “If a resident feels like they were treated unfairly by one of our deputies, or if they feel there was misconduct, there are appropriate steps in place through the disciplinary process,” Crisafulli said. “We take that very seriously.” Crisafulli said the sheriff’s office is fortunate that no law enforcement officer has been injured or killed in Worcester County because of someone monitoring their calls or movements. “This is a huge preventative key that we must put in place to ensure that we’re doing everything we can to protect our law enforcement officers,” Crisafulli said. “As your sheriff, I take transparency and accountability very seriously. We will keep the public updated through our social media outlets.” Crisafulli said that while law enforcement calls will be encrypted, channels for fire and emergency medical services will not be. A concern that was brought up to the sheriff’s office was why the main police channel is set to be encrypted, when there are other channels that the officers can easily use. Crisafulli said that in a life-ordeath situation, such as a shooting, there wouldn’t be enough time to switch between channels, and that their utmost concern would be protecting the individuals at risk of
harm. “Anyone with an iPhone, an Android or an iPad have access to downloading channels where they can monitor [law enforcement movement] and I believe that’s probably one of the big reasons why this is a nationwide ‘best practice’ for our officers,” Crisafulli said. He also said the plan to implement radio encryption has been in the discussion phase for roughly the last year. “My command team and I just recently started doing a deep dive into this to make the best decision for our brave law enforcement officers,” Crisafulli said. “I understand it’s not a popular decision. But it’s the right decision.” Crisafulli noted that over the last 10 years, his office has dealt with instances where burglaries and thefts have taken place, and in those cases, the criminals used scanners to track law enforcement movements, and that they were fortunate in those circumstances that a law enforcement officer wasn’t hurt. “We, as law enforcement, are up against a lot of danger in a society that can be unpredictable,” Crisafulli said. “I had to look at several different factors, such as the increase in mental health calls, and make the best possible decision. And, at the end of the day, this is the right decision.” Crisafulli also encouraged residents to find out more information about the radio encryption process by visiting the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency’s website at cisa.gov.
OCTOBER 27, 2023
PAGE 23
Ocean City Today
Shore Craft Beer Festival slated for Saturday By Mallory Panuska Managing Editor (Oct. 27, 2023) With more than 15 local and regional breweries, live music, food vendors and a mild weather forecast, the Ocean City Development Corporation’s ninth Shore Craft Beer Festival is set for Saturday afternoon at Sunset Park. “At this point we still have tickets available,” OCDC Executive Director Zach Bankert said this week of the event. “We should have tickets available at the door and encourage people to go online.” An arm of the city’s OCtoberfest activities that took place last weekend at Sunfest, the craft beer festival is one of the development corporation’s biggest annual fundraisers. Bankert said the breweries hail mostly from Maryland, with some from Delaware and Virginia. There will be more than 30 types of beer, as well as some hard teas and seltzers. Local band The Dune Hounds will be playing live music and more than 20 vendors will be serving food and other goods. The festival begins at 2 p.m. for general admission ticket hold-
SHORE CRAFT BEER’S OCTOBERFEST
FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Crowds mingle during the 2021 Shore Craft Beer Festival in Sunset Park. This year’s event is set for this Saturday at the bayside park.
ers, but VIPs can access the grounds at 1. The festivities wraps up at 5 p.m. VIP tickets were sold out earlier this week, but general admission passes were still available. Bankert said he expects about 1,500 people at the festival this year, which boasts aesthetic bay views from the
waterfront downtown park and adjacent lot. The weather was also looking promising for the day earlier this week, but Bankert said the organizers were keeping a close eye on the forecast. “Especially after sitting through a slightly rainy and very windy Sunfest
Snow Hill Halloween events Sat. (Oct. 27, 2023) After a 32-year hiatus, the Town of Snow Hill revived the thw town’s Halloween Parade in 2022. Hundreds of spectators lined the streets as people in costume, decorated cars, and floats paraded along a half-mile loop around downtown. It’s now that time of year again, and the 2023 Halloween Parade will return on Oct. 28. The parade will begin promptly at 6 p.m. at the Green Street Extension Parking Lot, travel down West Green Street, and cross the municipal parking lot to continue down Market Street back to the Green Street Extension parking lot. Trophies will be awarded for first and second places. To register, visit
Eventbrite.com. Participants will meet in the Green Street Extension parking lot at 5 p.m. for staging. Immediately following the parade, Green Street will transform into a Halloween Block Party. DJ Deogee will play music and The Bearded Men’s Society of Ocean City will host a beer truck for attendees 21 and over to benefit Diakonia. There will be a bounce house, Halloween crafts, face painting, and at 7
p.m. there will be an outdoor showing of Disney’s Hocus Pocus on Pearl Street. Attendees are asked to bring their own chairs and/or blankets. Winners of the costume contest will be announced at 9 p.m. The Town of Snow Hill, Downtown Snow Hill, Maryland’s Coast, The Bearded Men’s Society of Ocean City, and Tides & Vine are hosting the event. For questions, call Lorissa McAllister at 410-632-2080.
WHEN: 2-5 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 28 *VIP ticket holders can get in at 1 p.m.* WHERE: Sunset Park, 700 S. Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City DETAILS: General admission tickets are $40 and can be bought online in advance at shorecraftbeerfest.com/octoberf est.html or at the entrance. Event includes more than 15 Maryland, Delaware and Virginia breweries serving more than 30 different types of beer, as well as spiked teas and seltzers. There will also be live music, food vendors and more. this past weekend,” he said. While the festival has solidified its spot at Sunset Park, Bankert said this will likely be the last year it will be held there. A Kyma Hotel is proposed for the exact spot where the festival takes place, which will move the event once the project is built. Bankert said the plan is to move the beer fest to the Downtown Recreation Complex between Third and Fourth streets next year. The park is undergoing a massive renovation and should be ready just in time for next year’s event. “The timing works out perfect for this event,” Bankert said. “Plus that’s actually a larger space, and still has bay views and all that. The real beautiful part about having the event at Sunset Park is that you have a beer festival on the bay. But once they’re done that park we’ll be able to continue that as well.” To learn more about Saturday’s festival, and to buy tickets, visit shorecraftbeerfest.com.
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PAGE 24
OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
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Ocean City Today
PAGE 25
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Ocean City Today
OCTOBER 27, 2023
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Roasted Brussels sprouts w/ crispy bacon By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Oct. 27, 2023) After years of being unnoticed and kept on the back burner, Brussels sprouts have managed to become the rock star of the veggie world. Roasted Brussels sprouts are a common side in upscale steak houses. Vegetarians welcome the tiny cabbages and the leaves are commonly fried as a garnish. So why does the average home cook forgo the delicious option? A few helpful hints can make the difference between abstinence and indulgence. If one can envision what the end result is supposed to look like, the execution is much easier to achieve. So, the next question is “What is one trying to achieve?” You are looking for a crisp-tender texture, with bright green color, and you want the cut sides to be slightly charred. Brussels sprouts do not have a lot of sugar in them, so you can get them very dark without tasting bitter. Many recipes call for the Brussels sprouts to roast in the oven. But that takes time and it is more difficult to achieve the contrast in texture. First and foremost, rinse the
Brussels sprouts, removing any outer leaves that do not look attractive. Cut the sprouts in half and set aside. I like to cook them in a cast iron skillet. The skillet retains heat and is more conducive for the coveted crunch. Place the Brussels sprouts in a cold cast iron skillet, making sure the cut side is flat against the skillet. One might be wondering why a cold skillet? Since you will not disturb the sprouts in the pan during the cooking process, burning them can be an issue. Starting out with a cold pan diminishes the possibility of burnt sprouts. The secret to this dish is to generously spray the cast iron skillet with cooking spray before you start the dish. You want the Brussels sprouts to get a nice caramelization but you do not want them to stick to the pan. Add a half-cup of chicken broth,
and 4 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. The chicken broth will tone down the sulfurous quality of Brussels sprouts and also add flavor. Then place a lid and turn the heat to medium-high. During the first seven minutes, steam is created inside the skillet due to the moisture in the Brussels sprouts and the chicken broth. After seven minutes, uncover the skillet and check for doneness. At that point they should be perfectly
cooked. You can finish them off by adding flavorings such as Dijon mustard, brown sugar, white wine, or liquid smoke. Personally, I prefer to leave them plain and add either crispy bacon or pancetta, and garnish with reduced balsamic vinegar. For those who are not familiar with pancetta, it is a type of salami cut or cured pork belly. Like many other Italian cured meats, it is alSee BALSAMIC Page 32
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HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Pull together your dream team, Aries, because you are going to need all the help you can get at this point. The week is jam-packed with many different events.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, now is not the time to employ tough love if a friend or family member comes to you looking for help. You have to keep an open mind and a willingness to assist.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Your clever brain has a lot of creative ideas running through it, Gemini. It’s just a matter of zeroing in on one and then putting a plan into effect. Recruit some friends.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 If you believe and have faith, you will receive what you need this week, Cancer. Your patience finally may pay off in the form of just rewards. Keep your eyes open.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, your desires are limitless and you want things to go exactly how you envision them. However, sometimes you have to make compromises or concessions, like this week.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 It’s possible you may find refuge in relationships this week, Virgo. Surround yourself with the people closest to you who are pillars of support when you need them.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, do not put a half-hearted effort into self-care this week. You deserve to pamper yourself to the fullest level right now. Book that spa appointment or getaway.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 You might be caught in a daydream this week, Scorpio, which typically is not your modus operandi. It’s alright to let the brain wander a bit as long as you come back down from the clouds.
PAGE 27
Ocean City Today
Inaugural Ocean City Running Fest to commence Sat. By Remy Andersen Staff Writer (Oct. 27, 2023) Runners from far and wide will have the opportunity to participate in up to four races, all part of the inaugural Ocean City Running Festival this weekend. The event, created by Corrigan Sports Enterprises, is set for Saturday and will include a 5K run, an 8K run, a full marathon and a half marathon. The event will also be broadcast live on WMAR, a Baltimore-based news channel. Corrigan Sports Enterprises operates the Baltimore Running Festival and the Bay Bridge Run, as well as multiple other running events across the mid-Atlantic. Ryan Corrigan, the director of sales at Corrigan Sports enterprises, said his company handles every facet of the event, such as working with local police, the Ocean City Department of Tourism, and the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, to acquiring the county liquor permits, and picking up the trash on race day. “We are in a position where we’re looking to expand our business and finding new connections within the state of Maryland,” Corrigan said. “We feel like we can be successful in bringing large scale endurance events, and we’ve always felt like Ocean City would be a place that would be open to having us.” Corrigan explained that what made October the right time to hold the running festival was that it falls right in between the organization’s other two running festivals. “The weather is optimal around this time,” Corrigan said. “We don’t have a lot of competing events to worry about. It’s really in a good spot
PHOTO COURTESY RYAN CORRIGAN
Pictured is the finisher medal that will be handed to runners who complete any of the races at the running festival Saturday. The medal is in the shape of an oyster, with a scenic landscape of the Ocean City landscape depicted inside.
for us in our existing endurance schedule.” Three of the four races will start and end at the inlet parking lot, with the half marathon having runners catch a shuttle at 7:50 a.m. to Assateague Island. Participants of each race will run along the Route 50 Bridge and Route 611. The full and half marathons will have runners go all the way down to Assateague Island. Anyone who finishes will receive a medal in the shape of an oyster, a free Under Armor tee shirt, and two free drinks. Corrigan said that about 2,800 participants are slated to run in all four races. “This is an event that we can build on throughout the years both in runner participation, and with runner participation comes more sponsorship, which makes it much more viable,” Corrigan said. “It gives us the opportunity to make it an even better event year to year.” Sponsors for the event include Food Lion, Michelob Ultra, Atlantic
General Hospital, Atlantic Tractor and Lexus. The day before the race, participants can pick up their information packets and bib at the Ocean City Convention Center, where merchandise will be sold from 3-9 p.m. The full marathon starts at 7:30 a.m., the 5K and 8K races start at 8 a.m., and the half-marathon starts at 9:15 a.m. Award ceremonies will take place at a Celebration Village across from the finish line at the inlet, where activities will be held from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. This will include a live performance from country singer and Ocean City native Jimmy Charles. The awards ceremonies for the 5K and 8K runs will take place at 12 p.m. and the awards ceremonies for the full and half marathons will take place at noon. Judging for costume contests for each race will take place 15 minutes after each awards ceremony. For more information and to register for the event, visit ocmdrunfest.com.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, are you able to work from home this week or take some PTO? You likely can use the opportunity to avoid crowds for a while until your energy stores build up.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 People often appreciate your frank way of sharing information, Capricorn. However, this week you may need a little more finesse. Don’t be too blunt when conveying ideas.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, shift your focus from what you lost or missed out on to all of the things you have and enjoy. A simple change of perception can do a world of good.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Things could be so much easier if you go with the flow instead of swimming upstream like salmon, Pisces. This is not a battle you want to pick this week.
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PAGE 28
OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
Tickets available for ACT’s Wild & Scenic Film Festival (Oct. 27, 2023) For the 13th consecutive year, Assateague Coastal Trust and the Assateague coastkeeper is hosting the Wild & Scenic Film Festival to Ocean City. The event is set for 7 p.m., with doors opening at 6, on Nov. 16, at Seacrets’ Morley Hall. According to a news release, the film festival is considered one of the nation’s premier environmental and adventure festivals, by combining “stellar filmmaking, beautiful cinematography, and first-rate storytelling.” Attendees will watch award-winning films about nature, community, activism, adventure, and conservation. The program will feature 14 short films that celebrate the environment while speaking about concerns the Earth faces. “This festival is a natural extension of Assateague Coastal Trust’s work to inspire people to act on be-
half of the environment to help keep our coastal waterways Swimmable, Fishable, and Drinkable,” Assateague Coastkeeper, Taylor Swanson said in the release. The opening act will feature a local musician, Brian Foley, who will create an ambiance of calmness through music before the films begin. And because the doors open at 6 p.m, attendees will have time when they arrive before the films begin to view and bid on gift baskets that contain a variety of merchandise, one-ofa-kind art, gift cards and sports packages that have been donated from local merchants, restaurants, artists and galleries. As the night goes on, silent auctions, a 50/50 raffle, and event specials are scheduled. Advance tickets are on sale now at actforbays.org/wsff. Individual ticket prices are $25 and bundles of five are $100.
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PAGE 29
Ocean City Today
Nonfiction author panel set NOW PLAYING for Nov. 8 at library in Pines CAPTAIN’S TABLE
(Oct. 27, 2023) Four local authors will be speaking and talking with attendees at a nonfiction author panel on Nov. 8 at to be held at the Ocean Pines Branch of the Worcester County Library. The event begins at 6 p.m. and will feature Tony Russo, the Al Handy author of “Dragged into the Light;” Syl Sobel, the author of “Boxed Out of the NBA;” Sara Lewis, the author of “Purposeful People Pleasing;” and Al “Hondo” Handy, who discuss his memoir, “Defying Expectations: Family, Sports & Recreation.” The authors will talk about their books and writing processes. Russo’s book details a murder in rural Pennsylvania and its connection to an online cult leader and her followers. His work was featured in Season 2 of Vice TV’s “The Devil You Know.” His previous books include local favorites “Eastern Shore Beer: The Heady History of Chesapeake Brewing” and “Delaware Beer: The History of Brewing in the First State.” For Sobel’s book, he researched
the Eastern Professional Basketball League, which showcased the best players not featured in the NBA, largely due to unofficial racial quotas that persisted from the 1940s to ’60s. Sobel, through countless interviews and other primary sources, details how the league’s faster pace and innovations shaped the sport. He is also the author of children’s civics books, including “How the U.S. Government Works” and “Presidential Elections and Other Cool Facts.” Lewis urges readers to reconsider the notion that people-pleasing is a personality flaw—and how pleasing others can help individuals find balance, happiness, and fulfillment in her book. Handy’s memoir chronicles his story as one of the first AfricanAmerican students to attend an allwhite school and win a state basketball championship. He recently retired from the Ocean City Recreation & Parks Department and hopes his memoir encourages young people to pursue their dreams confidently and with purpose. For information on all Worcester County Library programs, visit the Events page at worcesterlibrary.org.
15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, Located in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City, 410-289-7192 / Captainstableoc.com Every Friday & Saturday: Phil Perdue, 5-9 p.m. COINS 28th Street and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100 / www.coinspuboc.com Oct. 27: Lennon LaRicci, 7 p.m. Oct. 28: Giddy Up Sing-A-Long, 4-6:30 p.m. ; No More Whiskey, 8 p.m.
CRAWL STREET TAVERN 19 Wicomico Street, Ocean City 443-373-2756 Oct. 27: Fuzzbox Piranha, 9 p.m. Oct. 28: Halloween Emo w/DJ Magellan, 8 p.m.
2 a.m.; DJ Tuff, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; LUNASEA Full Moon Glow Party!!, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Uncle Jesse, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m. Oct. 28: Plant Sale... EXTENDED, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Halloween Party & Costume Contest 2023, 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Full Circle, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Bobby-O, 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Dear Zoe, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; The Event Horizon, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; DJ Tuff, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Oct. 29: Plant Sale... EXTENDED, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Football Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. Oct. 31: Local's Halloween Party & Costume Contest, All Day; Light Up The Moon, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.; DJ Connair, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Nov. 2: DJ Connair, 9 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; Sip On That Thursdays!, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
WHISKER’S BAR & GRILL
SEACRETS
In the Ocean City Square Shopping Center, 11805 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City
49th Street and the Bay, Ocean City 410-524-4900 / www.seacrets.com Oct. 27: Plant Sale... EXTENDED, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Opposite Directions, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Bobby-O, 6: p.m. to
410-524-2609 /www.whiskersbar.com Oct. 27: Dance with Beats by Followers, 8 p.m. Oct. 30: Industrial Night, 8 p.m. Oct. 31: Ladies Night, Karaoke w/DJ Wood, 8 p.m.
DJ TUFF
Seacrets: Saturday, October 28, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.
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OPEN 6AM-8PM • 7AM-6PM Sa/Su S Call 443-7883-2004 Or STOP IN to Seee Us
11022 Nicholas Lane • Ocean Pines P 443 3-783-2004
Ocean City Today
PAGE 30
Dining Guide ■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$ ■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted —————————————
DOWNTOWN
South end to 28th Street
■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE 15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City, 410-289-7192, captainstableoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast: closed Monday through Wednesday; Thursday through Saturday, 7:30-11 a.m.; Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to noon. Open daily for Dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m. ■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT 28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 25:30 p.m. Sunday’s early bird specials, all day and all night. Happy Hour; daily, 2-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials. Open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. and Saturday through Sunday, 11:30 a.m. Dine-in, carry out. Ordering online www.coinspuboc.com. ■ CORAL REEF RESTAURANT & BAR 17th Street in the Holiday Inn & Suites, Ocean City 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m. ■ HARBOR WATCH RESTAURANT 806 S. Atlantic Ave., Boardwalk & Inlet, Ocean City 410-289-5121, harborwatchrestaraunt.com $$-$$$ | Reservations | Kids’ menu | Full bar Harbor Watch Restaurant prides itself on the highest quality seafood, unlimited sides, known for our award-winning raw bar, certified
angus beef and home to the best view of Ocean City Inlet and Assateague Island. Open Thursday at 4 p.m. and Friday through Sunday at 11:30 a.m. Closed Monday through Wednesday. Call for banquet and large-party details. ■ PAPI’S TACO JOINT 15th Street and Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City 443-664-6811, Papistacojoint.com $$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar 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 building your own street tacos with a sheet table side with their home-made authentic salsa. Serving food such as little cravings, 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. ■ THE WEDGE BAR 806 S. Atlantic Ave., Boardwalk and Inlet, Ocean City thewedgeoc.com $-$$ | Full bar Sit back, savor and take in the fresh salt air breeze at the most geographically unique dining spot. Treat your senses to elevated coastal cuisine and panoramic views of the ocean, bay and Assateague Island — the best view in town just got better. Enjoy small plates, sandwiches and burgers grilled on Ocean City’s only Josper grill. Happy Hour, Sunday, 3-5 p.m., featuring $10 Wings, chicken tenders, steamed shrimp, and $12 house burger! Open Friday through Sunday. Closing Sunday, Oct. 29.
MIDTOWN
29th to 90th streets
■ 32 PALM 32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410-289-2525, 32palm.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year! Don’t miss out on Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m. ■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT 3301 Atlantic Ave. in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-
OCTOBER 27, 2023
1201, marlinmoonocmd.com $$ | Full bar Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m. ■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-5244900, www.seacrets.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday through Saturday, 10 a.m. through midnight with island atmosphere. Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood.
UPTOWN
91st to 146th streets
■ BAHAMA’S CRAB SHACK CARRYOUT & OUTLET Oceanside MD/DE Line and Coastal Hwy, Fenwick 302-537-5882 Premier seafood, chicken, homemade soups, super crab cakes, steamed shrimp, fresh clams, soft crabs, scallops, oysters and snow crab claws. Fat crabs by weight, sandwiches and dinners. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Open Wednesday through Sunday. ■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS 118th Street, Ocean City 800-6410011, www.carouselhotel.com Enjoy one of the restaurants at the Carousel. Fine Ocean Front dining with a beautiful view. The Reef 118 is open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday through Sunday serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and 4-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday serving dinner. The Bamboo Lounge is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Sunday and 4-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday. ■ WHISKER’S PUB 11805 Coastal Hwy., Located in the Ocean City Square Shopping Center 410-524-2609, whiskerspub.com $$/$$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar Under new management. Serving lunch and dinner with new menu items. Finger foods, savory sandwiches, soups, salads, and delicious entrees. One of the highlights is the famous burgers. High quality ingredients and cooked to perfection. Also, serving fresh seafood, steaks, and chef’s special dishes. Happy Hour, daily, 4-7 p.m. Dine in, carry out and curbside pickup. Come for the food and stay for the fun. New Fall menu specials: Monday, Burger Night;
Wednesday, Rib Night; Thursday, Grandma's Meatloaf Night; Friday, Fish and Chips Night. NFL specials every game, food, and drink specials available. Check out our website for more details. Closed every Tuesday.
OCEAN PINES ■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE 100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410-641-7222, Oceanpinesgolf.org/dining $$ | Full bar Indoor and outdoor dining with sweeping views of the 18th green and pond, the Clubhouse Bar and Grille serves freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items with a full bar menu. Open everyday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. ■ OCEAN PINES YACHT CLUB 1 Mumford Landing Road, Ocean Pines 410-641-7222, www.OPYachtclub.com $$-$$$ | Full bar The Ocean Pines Yacht Club offers casual coastal cuisine for lunch and dinner in a beautiful bayfront setting. Fresh seafood, signature drinks, live music and more. Open Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
WEST OCEAN CITY ■ CANTINA LOS AGAVES MEXICAN GRILL 12720 Ocean Gateway #7, West Ocean City 410-390-3914, cantinalosagaves.com $$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar Ocean City’s newest Mexican restaurant and bar. Offering delicious and generous portions of the tastiest traditional and not so traditional #MexicanEats you have ever tried. Open daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Bar open til 11 p.m. ■ OC CHOPSTICKS Asian Bistr 12741 Ocean Gateway, Suite 890, West Ocean City (Outlets Ocean City) 410-801-1111, www.occhopsticks.com $$ | Beer | Premium Sake Authentic Chinese, Japanese and Thai food. Dine-in and carry out. Lunch specials, dinner and lite fare. Sunday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m to 9:30 p.m. and Friday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. ■ PIZZA TUGOS 9935 Stephen Decatur Hwy., West Ocean City 410-524-2922, pizzatugos.com $$ | Full bar | Celebrating 40 years in Ocean City. Offering pizza, wings, burgers, subs, salads, pasta and more! Open daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 2 a.m.
OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
PAGE 31
Golf tournament donates $12,500 to Coastal Hospice (Oct. 27, 2023) The Michael J. Strawley Sr. Memorial Golf Tournament Committee recently presented a check for $12,500 to Coastal Hospice for support of charitable care at the Macky & Pam Stansell House in Ocean Pines. According to a news release, the tournament has donated proceeds from the annual event to the organization since 2017, and the money raised this year contributed to the over $63,500 total raised. The seventh annual Michael J. Strawley, Sr. Memorial Golf Tournament was held at the River Run Golf Club in Berlin. Originally called the Bearded Clam Open, the tournament began in the early 1980s and was run by the late Michael J. Strawley Sr., who at the time owned the Bearded Clam in Ocean City.
Businesses within county can apply for sign program (Oct. 27, 2023) The Maryland Statewide Tourist Area Corridor Signing Program application period is open now until Nov. 30, and Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development officials urge local qualifying businesses and points of interest to apply. According to a news release, tourist area corridor signs are installed along selected state and county roads to guide motorists to Maryland recreational facilities, historical attractions, and cultural treasures. New businesses as well as those that have applied in the past must reapply for consideration. “Attraction signs drive visitors to our downtown areas and points of interest they may not otherwise know about,” Tourism Director Melanie Pursel said in the release. “It gets residents and visitors alike out and about exploring the county. We work closely with a consultant specifically assigned to Worcester to get the word out to the communities and to be sure a wide variety of points of interest are included in the corridor signs.” The tourist area corridor, a Maryland Department of Transportation program, is implemented by the State Highway Administration. To learn more about the program, eligibility criteria, and to apply, visit roads.maryland.gov/tac. For answers to questions or for assistance with the application process, contact Pursel at mpursel@co.worcester.md.us.
oceancitytoday.com
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Pictured, from left, are Cindi Strawley; tournament committee member George McKelvie; Tammy Patrick, Coastal Hospice director of advancement; tournament committee member Richard Stone; Holly Stone Murray, Coastal Hospice director of home hospice services; and Barbara Trumpower, Coastal Hospice Advancement Assistant.
Upon Michael's passing in September 2016, the tournament was renamed in
his honor by the Tuesday Golf Group. The tournament committee members
are George McKelvie, Rick Cole, Richard Stone, and Steve Silverman.
PAGE 32
Ocean City Today
OCTOBER 27, 2023
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Balsamic reduction adds taste Continued from Page 26 lowed to age rather than to be cooked directly or indirectly over heat. It is salt cured and not smoked. Balsamic reduction is made by allowing balsamic vinegar to simmer for around 15 to 20 minutes. It also requires some aromatics to make it more flavorful. You can purchase balsamic reduction in the vinegar section of your favorite supermarket. It is very inexpensive and saves you time. The acidity of the balsamic reduction pairs nicely with the bitterness of the Brussels sprouts. Brussels sprouts have come a long way. Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon and a drizzle of balsamic reduction are a perfect fall side dish. Enjoy!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts w/ Crispy Bacon and a Balsamic Reduction Ingredients 1 pound Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved 6 slices thick smoked bacon cooking spray ½ cup chicken broth 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
6 slices thick bacon kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste reduced balsamic vinegar as a garnish 1. Cook bacon in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat until crispy. Chop and set aside. Wash skillet and dry thoroughly. 2. Spray skillet generously with cooking spray 3. Arrange Brussel sprouts in a single layer, cut sides down. Add chicken broth olive oil, cover skillet, turn heat to medium-high and cook until sprouts are bright green and cut sides have started to brown, about 7 minutes. Cooking time will vary according to the size of the sprouts. 4. Uncover and check for doneness. 5. Remove sprouts from the skillet. In a medium bowl, toss the with the bacon or pancetta and salt. 6. Place them on a salad plate, garnish with balsamic reduction and freshly ground black pepper. Secret Ingredient – Brussels Sprouts “Brussels sprouts are misunderstood, probably because most people don’t’ know how to cook them properly.” — Todd English
OCTOBER 27, 2023
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Ocean City Today
Calendar Fri., Oct. 27 FRONTFEAR TOWN’S HAUNTED TRAIL Sun Outdoors Frontier Town, 8428 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, 7-10 p.m. The Haunted Trail is free to Sun Outdoors Frontier Town and Ocean City Gateway guests (with their campground wristbands). Admission for all others will be $10 cash per person. 443-978-0674
MAHJONG CLUB Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. All are welcome. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
HOWL-O-WEEN COSTUMES & COCKTAILS Seacrets, 117 49th St., Ocean City, 6-9 p.m. Featuring a buffet, open bar, live music, silent auction and 50/50 raffle. Costumes are encouraged. Cost is $90. 410-7490632, www.lifecrisiscenter.org
Sat., Oct. 28 BERLIN TRUNK OR TREAT Stephen Decatur Park, Tripoli Street,
Berlin, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Bring the family to Stephen Decatur Park to see our town trucks in action, fire and police vehicles, demos plus wear your costume for trickor-treatIng! https://www.facebook.com/events/34161 7391552704
WORCESTER COUNTY REPUBLICAN CENTRAL COMMITTEE PIG ROAST
OCEAN CITY RUNNING FESTIVAL
OCTOBERFEST SHORE CRAFT BEER FEST
OCEAN CITY RESORT GIFT EXPO
Hugh T. Cropper Inlet Parking Lot, 809 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City. Featuring a full marathon, half marathon, 8k and 5k race distances. Ocean City themed race medals for all finishers. Event releases: @OCRunFest. www.OCMDrunfest.com
Sunset Park, 700 S. Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 1-5 p.m. Includes live music, vendors, for trucks and unlimited tastings of over 30 different local craft beers. Prices are $65, $40 and $10. https://www.shorecraftbeerfest.com/octoberfest.html, 410-703-1970
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. This is the northeast’s leading souvenir and resort trade event with retailers from Maine to Virginia Beach. Discounted hotel rates, and on-site buyer amenities. www.oceancitygiftshow.com
FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
OKTOBERFEST
Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean Parkway, 9 a.m. to noon. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Open to the public.
St. Peter’s Lutheran Church Community Life Center, 10301 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 11:30 a.m. Menu includes sour beef & real dumplings, brats & sauerkraut, hot dogs, string beans, desserts, iced tea, coffee and water. BYO beer or wine. Cost is $25. RSVP: amy.splcoc@comcast.net, 410-524-7474.
11043 Mumford Road, Bishopville, 12-5 p.m. Cost is $35. Event reservations on Facebook: Worcester County Republican Central Committee of Maryland. Info: 717448-1741.
CHURCH RUMMAGE SALE First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City. 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Sun., Oct. 29
ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET Whaleysville United Methodist, 11716 Sheppards Crossing Road, 7-10 a.m. Buffet includes pancakes, bacon, sausage, scrapple, scrambled eggs, chipped beef, hash brown potatoes, toast, fruit and assorted beverages. Cost is $8 for adults and $4 for children.
DR. MADDOCKTER’S HAUNTED LABORATORY
SURFMEN OF THE U.S. LIFE-SAVING SERVICE AND U.S. COAST GUARD
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Walk the road to the mad doctor’s lair if you dare. See a dinosaur, an alien, a zombie horde and more. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
Author John Kopp will do an online program called “Turfmen of the U.S. Life-Saving Service and U.S. Coast Guard,” 1-2 p.m. Free event. Sign up: https://ocmuseum.wufoo.com/forms/z18ij9l0hy3w5d/ . 410-289-4991
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING Sundays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 10 a.m. www.jw.org
Continued on Page 34
PAGE 34
OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
CALENDAR Continued from Page 33
Mon., Oct. 30
emma@ocmuseum.org, 410-289-4991, www.ocmuseum.org
GHOST STORIES FROM THE SEA
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. This is the northeast’s leading souvenir and resort trade event with retailers from Maine to Virginia Beach. Discounted hotel rates, and on-site buyer amenities. www.oceancitygiftshow.com
Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., Ocean City, 10 a.m.-noon. Ed Guinan will represent Anton, an 1883 shipwreck victim. Hear how the Sallie W. Kaye ran aground off Ocean City and how one crew member made the deadline attempt to swim ashore. www.ocmuseum.org, 410-289-4991
DR. MADDOCKTER’S HAUNTED LABORATORY
DR. MADDOCKTER’S HAUNTED LABORATORY
OCEAN CITY RESORT GIFT EXPO
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Walk the road to the mad doctor’s lair if you dare. See a dinosaur, an alien, a zombie horde and more. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MONTHLY MOVIE MATINEE
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Catch a recent movie you might have missed in the theaters. Free event. Info: 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org.
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-7 p.m. Walk the road to the mad doctor’s lair if you dare. See a dinosaur, an alien, a zombie horde and more. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
CHAIR YOGA
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. Nicole Long, certified yoga instructor, teaches how to stretch in a safe and low impact manner. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169
Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 56:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410-641-0157
ONE MARYLAND ONE BOOK: TED TALKS
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m.,Watch three talks including “Native Americans: We Shall Remain,” “The Rise and Fall of the Lakota Empire,” and “America’s native prisoners of war.” 410632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
TANGER REHOBOTH BEACH TO HOST TRICK OR TREAT OFF THE STREET, OCT. 31
Tanger Rehoboth Beach - Surfside, 35000 Midway Outlet Drive, Rehoboth Beach, 57 p.m. Kids invited to enjoy Halloween while trick or treating at Atlantic Coast outlet destination. Children 12 years old and younger are welcome to enjoy trickor-treating from store to store.
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 WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS
Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-242-7062.
Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org
OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS
TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
GRACE PARKER BREAKFAST
First Presbyterian Church of Ocean City, 1301 Philadelphia Ave., 7-11 a.m. Cost is $12 to dine-in with one reorder or $10 for take-out. 410-208-9340, ocmdpresbyterian@gmail.com
MERRY MAKERS: PAPER BEADS
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. All materials provided, but if you have some unique paper or wallpaper, bring it along to share. Limit 10. Registration required: 410-208-4014. www.worcesterlibrary.org
DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Providing discussion and education on the topic of diabetes. Darlene Jameson, 410-208-9761, djameson@atlanticgeneral.org
JUNIOR MAKERS
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4:30 p.m. Explore science and the arts through fun learning activities and stories. For ages 6-8 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
STOMP
Ocean City Performing Arts Center Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 7 p.m. Brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters and more fill the stage with energy. Tickets cost $55-$75 at https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/7521323/s tomp-ocean-city-oc-performing-arts-center. 410-289-2800.
KIWANIS CLUB MEETING
Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, Assateague Room, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Third Wednesday meetings are offsite and will be updated monthly on the website and Facebook. Guests are welcome. www.kiwanisofopoc.org
ZUMBA WEDNESDAYS Mondays - Worcester County Library Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100
Tues., Oct. 31 OCEAN CITY RESORT GIFT EXPO
Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., This is the northeast’s leading souvenir and resort trade event with retailers from Maine to Virginia Beach. Discounted hotel rates, and on-site buyer amenities. www.oceancitygiftshow.com
OC KNITTING CLUB
Tuesdays - Worcester County Library Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.
HISTORICAL FIGURE COSTUME CONTEST
Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Come dressed as a historical figure to be entered for a chance to win a museum gift basket.
Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410-289-4725
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.
ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS
Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
Wed., Nov. 1
Wednesdays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st St., 10 a.m. Dance background not required. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
Thurs., Nov. 2 CPAP MASK FITTING
Atlantic General Hospital’s Sleep Disorders Diagnostic Center, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin. Free mask fitting clinic for patients who are having trouble adjusting to their CPAP equipment. Appointments required: Robin Rohlfing, 410-641-9726.
STORY TIME: MR. JAKE’S FAVES
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. It’s Picture Book Month, so it’s time of another of Mr. Jake’s favorite stories. Stick around after for a fun craft. For ages 2-5 years. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP
Takes place via Zoom the first and second Wednesday of each month. For non-surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatric Center, 410-641-9568
PLAY TIME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Join in for a variety of activities and
toys. Play and socialize with other families. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
CHESS CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Come to the library and bring your boards. All are welcome. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘NORMAL PEOPLE’ BY SALLY ROONEY
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Copies of the book are available at the Pocomoke Library circulation desk. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
MUSIC LEGENDS SERIES: NEIL YOUNG
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2 p.m. This 2006 film is highlighted by a performance by Neil Young at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
ZUMBA
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Join licensed, certified Zumba instructor Joyce Landsman for an hour of movement. These classes uplift and improve mood. Registration required: 410208-4014. www.worcesterlibrary.org
WSW HOLIDAY BINGO
Willards Lions Community Center, Hearn Street, Willards, 4:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets $35. Fun night out to win amazing, themed baskets, raffles and food to support your local breast cancer nonprofit. Where all funding stays local in the community. All services are free.
BEACH SINGLE 55 PLUS MEET AND GREET Thursdays - Harpoon Hanna’s, 39064 Harpoon Road, Fenwick Island, DE, 4-6 p.m. 302-436-9577, BeachSingles.org.
ONGOING EVENTS TOWN OF BERLIN PUMPKIN SCAVENGER HUNT
Peek in the participating shop windows to find all of the painted pumpkins. Pick up and return your entry form in the Berlin Welcome Center foyer, 14 S. Main Street, for your chance to win $100. Contest runs Oct. 1-30. Drawing will be on Halloween.
Crossword answers from page 26
October 27, 2023
35
Ocean City Today
Call 410-723-6397 by Monday 5 p.m.
Classifieds appear in Ocean City Today & Bayside Gazette each week and online at oceancitytoday.com & baysideoc.com
MARKETPLACE HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
RENTALS
ROOMMATES
COMMERCIAL
FOR SALE
Year-Round Experienced Outdoor Motor Mechanic Needed for basic out board service and winterizing outboards. Excellent starting salary. Call Harbor Marine W.O.C., 410-213-1383.
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 and long hours; working alone and with others. 410-289-4902 ask for Suzanne.
Newly-Furnished, Spacious, Two-Level, 3 bedroom/ 2 Bath Condo with sunroom overlooking Ocean Pines Golf Course. First and Second level family rooms. Eight-month lease through mid-June. $2,200/month + utilities/security deposit. NO smoking. Will consider dog/two-month renewable lease. Email: adkins.susan80@gmail.com
Year-Round Room For Rent Ocean Pines $800/month and $200 security. Fully furnished. All utilities included. 443880-2317
1 Office/Retail Space available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200
Indoor Decorative Ceiling Fans. Contact Brenda at 410-493-3847.
Small Local CPA Firm looking for individual to perform Clerical/Receptionist duties, provide administrative support to other staff members. Full time tax season/part time non tax season. Send resume to jennifer@ jenniferlynchcpa.com Small Engine Mechanic Year Round Competitive Wages 443-754-1047
Ocean City Florist Now Hiring PT Floral Designer. 2-3 days a week. Some Saturdays will be required. Experience necessary. Call 410-250-1636 or apply within. HIRING Code of Enforcement & Building Official. Full-time with benefits for the Town of Selbyville. Complete job description at Selbyville.delaware.gov
NOW HIRING!! Production Crew for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $20/hr. Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com
Classified Deadline is Monday @ 5pm
WOC - YR Rental - 5BR, 3.5BA, 3600 sq.ft. on pond. $2950/month and one months security plus utilities. Contact Lou, 410-713-0065. Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555. Fully Furnished Townhouse, 4BR, 2BA, Living Room, Dining Room. Water, Electric and Cable not included. $2100/month. Yearly lease. One month security deposit and one month rent upfront. Located at 438 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines, MD 21011. 410-456-0272
Winter Rental - Ocean City. XL Master bedroom w/private bath. Fully furnished. $800/ month. Includes all utilities. No pets. No smoking. 443880-2486 HOUSE SHARING Nice house. 94th Street area. Enclosed hot tub room, other amenities. Nice pets considered. Seeking employed males 20-30 years old who have their life together. Winter or year round. $600/month plus utilities. Text Rob, 410-726-5200.
COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL Industrial Warehouse. Space: 1500 sq. ft. Masonry construction, 18’ high ceiling, large garage door, bathroom. Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.
Office/Retail Space For Rent 561 sq.ft. on Main Street, Berlin. Easy on-ground level access, plenty of parking. Only $918/month including CAM and all utilities. Call 410-641-0128
DONATIONS DONATIONS Do you have an old bicycle not being used? It could mean a world of difference to a hard-working international student. We are looking to get as many bikes as possible. Your donation will be taxdeductible. Contact Gary at 443-975-3065.
California King Size. Split Sleep Number bed, like new, available $5,000, originally $9,000. Hardly slept in. Contact Brenda at 410-493-3847.
YARD SALE YARD SALE Yard Sale. Multi-family. Saturday, Oct. 28, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. 6 Burley Street, Berlin, Md. Rugs, jewelry, pictures and more.
VEHICLES VEHICLES WE BUY CARS Running or not. 302-732-3529
SERVICES
BUDGET MOVERS 443-664-5797
OFF SEASON RENTALS Hiring Liquor Store Attendant, Cooks, Audio/Video Techs, Maintenance Staff, Painters, Carpenter, Plumber Apply in person or online at seacrets.com
Utililites Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com 410-289-8581
Commercial Warehouses 600 and 800 sq. ft. spaces West Ocean City and Bishopville, MD Yearly Leases Only
Call 646-812-1212
HERKER PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
Yearly & Seasonal Rentals
OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR - BI-LINGUAL A PLUS
We Welcome Pets 7700 Coastal Hwy 410-524-7700 www.holidayoc.com
EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Customer Service, MS Word & Excel, knowledge of Basic Office Procedures; Strong Math Skills are a plus. WE OFFER: Full-Time, Monday - Friday, competitive pay, great benefits, paid holidays and vacation. Email resume to Gherker@comcast.net or call 610-459-5857 TOWN OF SNOW HILL, MARYLAND Clerk I Position Opening The Town of Snow Hill seeks a qualified candidate for its Clerk I position. PAY RATE: Hourly, TBD commensurate with qualifications/ experience. Full-time, health insurance, retirement, vacation, sick, personal and holidays. JOB SUMMARY: This individual serves as a liaison between the public and Town staff. This individual answers phones; performs clerical and receptionist duties for the Town; handles administrative work for management and occasionally Town staff; and keeps reception area clean and presentable for the public. The goal of this individual is to be the face of the local government to those needing Town services and make certain interactions provided are positive and welcoming. Visit www.snowhillmd.gov for Job Description. TO APPLY: Email letter of interest & resumé to Rick Pollitt at townmanager@snowhillmd.com by October 31, 2023.
www.facebook.com/OCBudgetMovers
CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK
Classifieds 410-723-6397 An Innovative Approach to Property Maintenance
LOCAL & EAST COAST MOVING Full Packing Service Piano Movers - Full Service
Classifieds appear in Ocean City Today & Bayside Gazette each week and online at oceancitytoday.com and baysideoc.com
Serving the Newspapers of Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia since 1908.
MARYLAND STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING 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 MISC. FOR SALE Switch to DISH and get up to a $300 gift card! Plus get the Multisport Pack included for a limited time! Hurry, call for details: 1-855-407-6870.
MISC. SERVICES FREE high-speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet service. Bonus offer: Android tablet FREE with one-time $20 copay. Free shipping & handling. Call Maxsip Telecom today! 1-888-592-5957 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.
Advertise in MDDC 410-723-6397
www.oceancitytoday.com Order YOur Classifieds Online!
PETS/PET SUPPLIES Are you a pet owner? Do you want to get up to 100% back on Vet Bills? Physicians Mutual Insurance Company has pet coverage that can help! Call 1-888-928-1656 to get a free quote or visit insurebarkmeow.com/mddc SERVICES DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ MDDC#6258 VEHICLES WANTED DONATE YOUR CAR/TRUCK/ RV - Lutheran Mission Society of MD Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044. 410-228-8437 www.CompassionPlace.org
• Convenient • Quick • No Waiting, No Calls • Days, Nights & Weekends
PAGE 36
OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
DIRECTORY BLINDS & SHADES
CLEANING SERVICES
CONSTRUCTION
ELECTRICIAN
ELECTRICIAN ElEctric
HANDYMAN
EmErGEncy
Raym Raymond mond O’Brocki O O’B Jr.
sErvicE availablE
410-251-3153
M Master Electrician
443 691 0544 0 Call or Text Electric Veh hicle Chargers
35 Years Exp perience
rEsidEntial & commErcial sErvicE Services Include additions • interior/Exterior lighting lamp & light repair • Generator installs
No Job Too Small! Frree Estimates! Residential/Commercia al/Emergencies! MD Lic #2268 Worcestter Co Lic #M1337
Call Turner Today 410-251-3153
HOME IMPROVEMENT
HOME IMPROVEMENT
G.T. CLIFT INC. Home Improvements Roofing Siding
Decks
Windows Doors
Chimneys Built Relined Swept
FireSafeChimney.com 410-360-8460 MHIC 65416 HOME IMPROVEMENT
BAYSIDE BUILDERS
COMPLETE HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR LICENSED AND FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES ALL WORK DONE BY OWNER
• Flat Roof Specialist • • Roofing • Siding • Windows • Doors • Custom Homes • Additions • Repairs • Kitchens • Baths • Tile Work • Decks • Custom Inside Trim Work • Hardwood Floors
Cell: 410-713-8599 PAINTING • CUSTOM PAINTING • DRYWALL REPAIRS • WALLPAPER REMOVED • DECK & HOUSE STAINING Painting & Powerwashing • ALWAYS PROMPT SERVICE Interior & Exterior
Zimmerman & Son LLC Serving Delmarva for Over 35 Years Licensed & Insured
Free Estimates
10% Discount with this ad. Bill Zimmerman cell 443-373-4539
NOW ACCEPTING CREDIT CARDS!
MD MASTERS LIC. #15438 M400
RISH A RBEACHMAN PHANDY THE
Exterior Home Repairs
“WE DO IT ALL”
• Roofing Repairs • Rain Gutters • Roof Cleaning • Gutter Guards
Contracting, LLC
Home Improvement Services Company
“One stop shop for Home Improvement”
Home Improvement Design & Bertch Cabinet Retail • Cabinets & Countertop • Kitchen & Bath Remodeling • General Carpentry & Painting
• Flooring & Tile • Residential & Commercial • Servicing Maryland & Delaware Beaches
US Veterans Administration Approved Contractor
11312 Manklin Creek, Rd., Ocean Pines, MD ~ Call or Stop in Today!
(410) 208-1518 • (410) 982-8368 pipelinecontracting.net • info@pipelinecontracting.net MDHIC # 107489 • DE # 2014100304 • Insured & Licensed
• Staining • Caulking
• Gutter Cleaning & Powerwashing •
• Deck Repairs •
Licensed • Bonded • Insured • MHIC 17433 “A Family Tradition Since 1935”
410-893-9707
BERLIN • OCEAN PINES • OCEAN CITY
PipeLine
• Screening • Painting
HOME IMPROVEMENT AN AFFORDABLE NEW BATH STARTS HERE!
Making Your Dream Bath Come True For 20 Years! Specializing in Bathroom Remodels Tub to Shower Conversions Custom Tile Work Contact Garth for FREE Estimate! atminc4u@aol.com 410-641-8439
MHIC #94614 Licensed Insured
MOVING SERVICES
MVA LICENSED
BUDGET MOVERS
NEW TITLE AND TAGS AND MORE www.westoceancitytagandtitle.com
The Area’s #1 Moving Company
LOCAL • ENTIRE EAST COAST
Residential or Office or Commercial Packing or Loading or Unloading or Complete Move Single Item or Certain Items or Full Home
Call Maria: 443-664-5797
WEST OCEAN CITY
VEHICLE TAG & TITLE TRADER LEE’S VILLAGE 9935 STEPHEN DECATUR HIGHWAY #15 Open Mon., Fri., 9-2 & Wed. 9-5
Female Owned & Operated
JODY PALMISANO 410-629-5600
www.Facebook.com/ocbudgetmovers
40+ Years in Business
Licensed & Insured
PAINTING
POWERWASHING / SOFT WASH POWERWASHING Atlantic Coast Powerwashing Services
Commercial & Residential • Complete Exterior Cleaning Hot Water, Powerwashing & Soft Wash Systems Year round ser vices • Deck Staining w/yearly & seasonal • Decks • Docks rates • Houses • Restaurants • Shopping Centers ices is ad! • Roofs • & More h all ser v t w/ 410-603-3400
Joe Beran/Owner Operator acms1st@gmail.com
MHIC 97081 Ocean City 34629 • Delaware 2004 222 381 Licensed & Insured
OCTOBER 27, 2023
PAGE 37
Ocean City Today
DIRECTORY REAL ESTATE
Kim Dixson REDFIN AGENT
Sell for more, pay a 1% listing fee when you buy and sell with Redfin Agents.*
ROOFING
ROOFING
REDFIN
190 W. Ostend St., #200 Baltimore, MD 21230 Redfin - Direct 410-868-5666 redfin.com
443-373-1328 kim.dixson@ redfin.com License #650977
Contact Kim for a no-obligation home-value consultation. *Sell for more based on difference between the sale and list prices of Redfin listings versus those of comparable listings by other brokerages, per a 2019 study. Sell for a 1% listing fee only if you also buy with Redfin within 365 days of closing on your Redfin listing. If you sell first we will initially charge a 1.5% listing fee and then send you a check for the .5% difference after you buy your next home with Redfin. Subject to $3,750 minimum Redfin commission. Listing commission subject to change. Buyer’s agent commission not included. More info at redfin.com/disclaimer. Information provided is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. If you are currently working with an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business.
Your Roofing, Siding & Home Improvement Specialist Since 1989 ROOFING • SIDING • DURADEK • WINDOWS • GUTTERS
Mike Moesle 410-629-1573, Fax: 410-629-1946 mmoesle@shoresidingmd.com www.shoresidingmd.com
*Licensed in MD, DE &VA
Your Online Community: www.oceancitytoday.com
PAGE 38 Rosenberg & Associates, LLC 4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 (301) 907-8000 www.rosenberg-assoc.com
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE
OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY 7402 COASTAL HWY., UNIT #203 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from Donald Holmes Jr. and Nancy A. Holmes dated February 11, 2008 and recorded in Liber 5059, folio 385 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, 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 7, 2023 AT 3:55 PM ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with the buildings and improvements thereon situated in Worcester County, MD and described as Unit No. 203 in the "CASA DEL MARE CONDOMINIUM" and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. Tax ID #10-741823. The property, which is improved by a dwelling, 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 $42,000 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 to be paid in cash within ten days of final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. Interest to be paid on the unpaid purchase money at the rate pursuant to the Deed of Trust Note from the date of sale to the date funds are received in the office of the Sub. Trustees. There will be no abatement of interest in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement or if settlement is delayed for any reason. The noteholder shall not be obligated to pay interest if it is the purchaser. 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 charges and ground rent, to be adjusted to date of sale and paid at execution of the deed, except where the secured party is the purchaser, and thereafter assumed by the purchaser. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale forward. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes and settlement expenses shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining
Ocean City Today / Public Notices physical possession of the property. Purchaser assumes the risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale forward. Additional terms to be announced at the time of sale. If the Sub. Trustees are unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser's sole remedy in law and equity shall be limited to a refund of the deposit without interest. If the purchaser fails to go to settlement, the deposit shall be forfeited, to the Trustees for application against all expenses, attorney’s fees and the full commission on the sale price of the above-scheduled foreclosure sale. In the event of default, all expenses of this sale (including attorney’s fees and the full commission on the gross sale price of this sale) shall be charged against and paid out of the forfeited deposit. The Trustees may then re-advertise and resell the property at the risk and expense of the defaulting purchaser or may avail themselves of any legal or equitable remedies against the defaulting purchaser without reselling the property. In the event of a resale, the defaulting purchaser shall not be entitled to receive the surplus, if any, even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulting purchaser and the defaulting purchaser shall be liable to the Trustees and secured party for reasonable attorney’s fees and expenses incurred in connection with all litigation involving the Property or the proceeds of the resale. Trustees' file number 22-001165MD-F-1. Diane S. Rosenberg, Mark D. Meyer, et al., Substitute Trustees
OCD-10/19/3t _________________________________ VICTORIA L. O'NEILL ESQ. AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P A 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of JANE HARRISON Estate No. 19927 Notice is given that TAMMY W BALSTER whose address is 144 INTREPID LANE BERLIN, MD 21811 was on OCTOBER 11, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JANE HARRISON who died on AUGUST 20, 2023 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 11th day of APRIL, 2024. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present
the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-10/19/3t _________________________________ IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND IN THE ESTATE OF: DONALD L. MARINI ESTATE NO. 19929
NOTICE
OF JUDICIAL PROBATE To all Persons Interested in the above estate: You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Brian M. Spern Esq., 3701 Old Court Road, Suite 24, Baltimore, MD 21208 for judicial probate for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing will be held at One W. Market Street, Court Room 4, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on 11/21/2023 at 10:00 a.m. This hearing may be transferred or postponed to a subsequent time. Further information may be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills. Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Phone: (410) 632-1529 Newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Publication Date: 10/19/2023 OCD-10/19/2t _________________________________ IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND IN THE ESTATE OF: CASEY EDWARD ROBINSON ESTATE NO. 19906
NOTICE
OF JUDICIAL PROBATE To all Persons Interested in the above estate: You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Kathleen Rinck Hoffman, 12544 River Run Lane, #82, Berlin, MD 21811 for judicial probate for the appointment of
OCTOBER 27, 2023 a personal representative. A hearing will be held at One W. Market Street, Court Room 4, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on 11/14/2023 at 10:00 a.m. This hearing may be transferred or postponed to a subsequent time. Further information may be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills. Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Phone: (410) 632-1529 Newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Publication Date: 10/19/2023 OCD-10/19/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of STEPHANIE JEANNE HARRIS Estate No. 19919 Notice is given that LARRY BLACKWELL whose address is 3 BAY VISTA DRIVE, BERLIN, MD 21811 was on OCTOBER 06, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of STEPHANIE JEANNE HARRIS who died on AUGUST 31, 2023 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 6th day of APRIL, 2024. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-10/19/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19901 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MELANIE ANN WILLIAMS
OCTOBER 27, 2023 Notice is given that Alexandra J. Williams, 3016 Belgrade Street, Philadelphia, PA 19134, was on October 10, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Melanie Ann Williams who died on July 10, 2023, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 10th day of April, 2024. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Alexandra J. Williams 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 19, 2023 OCD-10/19/3t _________________________________ VICTORIA L. O’NEILL ESQ. AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P.A. 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19926 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF M. ROBERT CLARKE AKA: MARVIN ROBERT CLARKE Notice is given that Robert T. Clarke, 12745 Old Bridge Road, Ocean City, MD 21842, was on October 11, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of: M. Robert Clarke who died on August 11, 2023, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate
Ocean City Today / Public Notices of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 11th day of April, 2024. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Robert T. Clarke 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 19, 2023 OCD-10/19/3t _________________________________
REQUEST FOR BIDS
Sturgis Park Public Restroom Rehabilitation The Town of Snow Hill will be soliciting sealed bids for a grant funded rehabilitation of the existing public restroom facility in Sturgis Park, at 204 River Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863. Bidding will be opened to the public on Friday, November 3, 2023. A recommended pre-bid site meeting between November 7, 2023 and November 14, 2023 can be scheduled through Town Hall. Bids will be accepted until 4:00 PM on Monday, November 20, 2023 at the Snow Hill Town Hall, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, Maryland, 21863 where they will be opened publicly and read aloud. Three copies of the bid package are required, in sealed envelopes marked SEALED BID: STURGIS PARK RESTROOMS. Bids must remain valid for a minimum of 90 days from the date of bid opening. Late bids will not be accepted. E-mail submissions will not be accepted. Last day for questions is Thursday, November 16, 2023. For a copy of the complete REQUEST FOR BIDS- Sturgis Park Public Restroom Rehabilitation , visit the Town web site at www.snowhillmd.gov or pick up at Town Hall. Paul Bessette Grants Administrator 410.632.2080 pbessette@snowhillmd.com OCD-10/19/2t _________________________________
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.
PAGE 39 1-201(b)(5) and ZS 1-305, located at 2030 Wildwood Trail, Tax Map 61, Parcel 41, Lot 15, Tax District 7, Worcester County, Maryland. 6:40 p.m. Re-advertisement of Case No. 23-55, on the lands of Janet & Daniel Trimper, IV Revocable Trust, on the application of Mark Cropper, requesting a variance to reduce the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Buffer Management Area from 50 feet to 39.6 feet (to encroach 10.4 feet) and a variance to increase the 30 percent allowable forest clearing to 33.7 percent associated with a construction of a single family dwelling, Pursuant to Natural Resources Code §§ NR 3-104 (c)(4), NR 3-111 and NR 3-107(c)(4) and Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(m), located at 11031 Piney Island Drive, Tax Map 15, Parcel 90, Lot 19, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland. Administrative Matters OCD-10/26/2t _________________________________
Wednesday, November 1, 2023 At 3:00 PM BAAV – 23-094 – A request for appeal to the notice of a violation from the Department of Planning & Community Development dated 9/25/23 referencing 2018 Property Maintenance Code Sec. 304.6 Exterior Walls and Sect. 304.7 Roofs & Drainage that was an order to remove an existing bottom row of glass block to property locally known as 501 BAYSHORE DR UNIT 7 parcel number 5347-7. Applicant/Owner: Guy & Laurie Sosnowski OCD-10/19/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2023 Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland. 6:30 p.m. Case No. 23-73, on the lands of Tammy Adkins, requesting a special exception to allow a 6-foottall fence in a front yard setback, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(3), & ZS 1-305(k)(3) located at 13232 Muskrattown Road, Tax Map 4, Parcel 47, Lot 1, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland. 6:35 p.m. Case No. 23-74, on the lands of Steve Novak, requesting an after-the-fact variance to the right side yard setback from 20 feet to 9.8 feet (to encroach 10.2 feet) for existing sheds and an after-the-fact variance to the right side yard setback from 20 feet to 14.8 feet (to encroach 5.2 feet) for an existing garage in the A-1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS
TOWN OF OCEAN CITY
ORDINANCE 2023-20 RE: Establishment of Rules, Regulations, and Policies Notice is hereby given by the Mayor and City Council of Ocean City, that Ordinance 2023-20 was introduced for first reading at their meeting of October 16, 2023. Second reading is scheduled November 6, 2023. A complete text of the ordinance is available for review in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842, or online at oceancitymd.gov in the October 16, 2023, agenda packet. This ordinance amends Town Code Chapter 46, Law Enforcement, to allow Ocean City Police Department policies, in coordination with Lexipol, to be updated rapidly as may be necessary to comply with State and Federal law changes. Updated policies will now be approved monthly by the Police Commission and presented annually to the Mayor and City Council. OCD-10/26/1t _________________________________
PROPOSAL SOLICITATION
Comprehensive Plan Update Worcester County is seeking Proposals from qualified Vendors to contract with a consulting firm for the purpose of reviewing and preparing the State-mandated update to the County’s Comprehensive Plan in conformity with the requirements contained herein Proposal Documents. Proposal Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer, Nicholas
PAGE 40
Ocean City Today / Public Notices
Rice, at nrice@co.worcester.md.us or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their Proposals. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents. The last day for questions will be noon on Tuesday, November 7, 2023. Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than 2:30pm on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863. Envelopes shall be marked "Bid Solicitation – Comprehensive Plan Update" in the lower left- hand corner. Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted. Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of the solicitation. Nicholas W. Rice, CPPO, CPPB, NIGP-CPP Procurement Officer Worcester County, Maryland OCD-10/26/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 106 ”Waterways,” Article II – “Shoreline Development” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Port Wardens Ordinance of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland. Thursday, November 9, 2023 At 2:00 p.m. PW 23-096 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings a maximum channelward extension of 26’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 8904 RUSTY ANCHOR RD UNIT 227 Parcel # 9079 -227 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Joseph Spanier APPLICANT: Hidden Oak Farm, LLC PW 23-097 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift with associated pilings and to remove existing pier to accommodate lift; maximum channelward extension 16’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 706
MOORING RD UNIT C Parcel # 9528 -164A - in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Stephen Altshuler APPLICANT: McGinty Marine Construction, Inc. PW 23-098 A request has been submitted to install 2 floating docks (6’ x 10’ / 8.5’ x 15’) totaling 187.5 sq. ft. a maximum channelward extension of 15’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 115 70TH ST UNIT A Parcel # 6636 -3 -114 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Gabriel Smith APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, LLC PW 23-099 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift with four associated pilings maximum channewlard extension of 24’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 778 94TH ST UNIT 314 Parcel # 9647 314 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Bill Trakas APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, LLC PW 23-100 A request has been submitted to install ~ 40’ of replacement vinyl bulkhead (maximum channelward 18”) using batter pile system and to install a new 5’ x 28’ parallel dock, all maximum chanelward extension of 6’6”. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 112 PEACH TREE RD Parcel # 8020A-1239B- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Duck Chul & Soojee Lee APPLICANT: Ocean Services of DE, Inc. PW 23-101 A request has been submitted to remove all existing structures and install 40’ of replacement bulkhead using batter piles (maximum channelward 18”) and to install a new 5’ x 40’ parallel platform, a new 5’ x 30’ perpendicular pier, and one boat lift with four (4) mooring piles; all work maximum channelward extension of 36’ 6”. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 216 BEACHCOMBER LN Parcel # 8020A-1413B- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Ronald Labrozzi APPLICANT: Ocean Services of DE, Inc. PW 23-102 A request has been submitted to install 40’ of replacement vinyl bulkhead 18” channelward and to construct a 5’x 28’ parallel platform maximum channelward extension of 6’ 6”. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 13325 PEACH TREE RD Parcel # 8020A1274B- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Myrta Gayle APPLICANT: Ocean Services of DE, Inc. PW 23-103 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift on existing pilings maximum channelward extension 16’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 2807 PLOVER DR UNIT 2 Parcel # 4941 -2 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT/OWNER: Robert & Wendy Ogilvie OCD-10/26/2t _________________________________
REGAN J. R. SMITH ESQ WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON LLP 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19922 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MARY E. BOYD Notice is given that Harold D. Boyd Jr., 14330 N W Belle Place, Beaverton, OR 97006, was on October 18, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary E. Boyd who died on August 6, 2023, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 18th day of April, 2024. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Harold D. Boyd Jr. 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 26, 2023 OCD-10/26/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19933 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CARLA BOND FIORE Notice is given that James Fiore, 404 Broad Street, Berlin, MD 21811, was on October 16, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Carla Bond Fiore who died on September 22, 2023, with a will. Further information can be ob-
OCTOBER 27, 2023 tained 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 16th day of April, 2024. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. James Fiore 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 26, 2023 OCD-10/26/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of HOWARD LEVIN Estate No. 17093 Notice is given that MINDY LEVIN MCGAFFIN whose address is 14268 FOXHALL ROAD, SOLOMONS, MD 20688 was on OCTOBER 16, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of HOWARD LEVIN who died on SEPTEMBER 2, 2017 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 16th day of APRIL, 2024. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this
OCTOBER 27, 2023 published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD-10/26/3t _________________________________
BID SOLICITATION Basketball Court Renovation at Pocomoke Middle School
Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors to contract for the renovation of a basketball court at Pocomoke Middle School in conformity with the requirements contained herein Bid Documents. Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer, Nicholas Rice, at nrice@co.worcester.md.us or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids. Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents. A pre-bid conference is scheduled for Wednesday, November 1, 2023, at 10:30am on-site at the basketball courts at Pocomoke Middle School. The last day for questions will be noon on Monday, November 13, 2023. Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than Monday, November 20, 2023 and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863. Envelopes shall be marked "Bid Solicitation – Basketball Court Renovation at Pocomoke Middle High School" in the lower left- hand corner. Late Bid Documents will not be accepted. Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for award of the solicitation. Nicholas W. Rice, CPPO, CPPB, NIGP-CPP Procurement Officer Worcester County, Maryland OCD-10/26/1t _________________________________
LEGAL ADVERTISING Call: 410-723-6397 Fax: 410-723-6511 or E-mail: legals@oceancitytoday.net
Ocean City Today
PAGE 41
Slight improvement in coastal bays Results of 2022 report card show region went from C+ to B- in span of year By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer (Oct. 27, 2023) The health of the coastal bays has improved slightly, based on a 2022 report card the Maryland Coastal Bays Program released this week. Members of the organization gave the coastal bays a B-, up from a C+ the year before. Improved total phosphorus scores, which can limit plant growth if not abundant enough, contributed to the slightly higher overall health of the bays, according to the report. The coastal bays encompass Isle of Wight Bay, Assawoman Bay, Newport Bay, Sinepuxent Bay and Chincoteague Bay. A variety of shoreline restoration, stormwater improvement, and wetland restoration projects have been installed to improve habitat as well as keep sediments and nutrients from washing into the bays, said Roman Jesien, the science coordinator for Maryland Coastal Bays Program. The program determines the health of the coastal bays annually by measuring the progress of four water quality indicators: nitrogen, phosphorus, chlorophyll a and dissolved oxygen, as well as two biotic indicators: seagrass and hard clams. The coastal bays’ nitrogen score, a factor in plant growth, improved or stayed the same in all regions except the St. Martin River, which had a slight decline. The dissolved oxygen score, vital for the survival of animal species, such as crabs, fish and mollusks, also increased, with improvements in Chincoteague Bay and Sinepuxent Bay, outweighing modest declines in several other regions. No region scored above a poor condition for seagrasses, an indicator of water quality, with large declines occurring in Chincoteague Bay and Sinepuxent Bay. The overall scores for phosphorus, Chlorophyll a, a measurement of the amount of algae in the water, and hard clams were similar to last year. “Water quality has been, and will continue to be a huge issue for the coastal bays,” Kevin Smith, the executive director of Maryland Coastal Bays Program said. “MCBP has worked with Worcester County, the Town of Berlin and Ocean Pines to help address stormwater issues in our bays. Over time, these projects will help improve the quality of waters in the bays.” Each bay gets its own grade, which are as follows: Assawoman Bay received a C+, a strong improvement from the past year, when it was given a C. All indi-
PHOTO COURTESY MARYLAND COASTAL BAYS PROGRAM
Bill Dennison, a professor of marine science and interim president of University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, presents details of the Maryland Coastal Bays Program’s 2022 coastal bays report card to an audience in Ocean City earlier this week. The grade for the five-bay region went from a C+ to a B-, which was a slight improvement.
cator scores improved from last year except for dissolved oxygen and seagrass. St. Martin River received a C, the same as the year before. Nitrogen and phosphorus had the lowest scores of any region. Despite this, St. Martin had a very good hard clams score. Hard clams are a good indica-
tor species because they are filter feeders. Clam health reflects the health of the entire ecosystem. Isle of Wight Bay received a B-, an improvement from a C+, due to strong improvements in nitrogen, phosphorus and Chlorophyll a. Newport Bay received a C-, the See COASTAL Page 42
PHOTO COURTESY MARYLAND COASTAL BAYS PROGRAM
The pictured graphic shows the ways in which the coastal bays’ health improved in 2022, according to the annual state of the bays report card the Maryland Coastal Bays Program released Oct. 24.
PAGE 42
OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
TREE OF LIFE DEDICATION
The Ocean City Paramedics Foundation recently dedicated a leaf on the Tree of Life at the convention center to Stan Kahn, a long time member of the Foundation. Pictured at the dedication are Felecia Kahn, Paul Kahn, Sandy Gaal, Dan Harris, Marcia Hirsch, Veronica Kahn, Aviva Kahn, Buck Mann, Sidney Ward, Billy Carder, Rick Pairo and Arlan Kenny. SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OCEAN CITY TODAY
Coastal bays program released report Tues. Continued from Page 41 lowest score, which is an increase from a D+ the year before, due to improvements in scores for Chlorophyll a, nitrogen and phosphorus. The Town of Berlin sits on the headwaters of Newport Bay and considerable efforts have been expended to improve conditions, Jesien said. “A number of years ago the effluent from the sewage treatment plant was diverted from Newport Bay to the larger Pocomoke River drainage,” he said. “A stormwater utility was established to fund improved stormwater conveyances and minimize nuisance flooding.” More projects are in the works for stormwater improvements and stream restoration in the Hudson Branch and Bottle Branch. “As we see so often, water degradation comes quickly, but improvement takes a lot longer,” Jesien said. We feel we are making the right improvements in the watershed but it will take time to see the fruits of those improvements.” Sinepuxent Bay received a score of B, similar to the past year and the highest score in any region. The only decline was in seagrass.
Chincoteague Bay received a score of B-, the same as the past year. It saw improvements in the dissolved oxygen score but a decline in the seagrass score. No region scored above a poor condition for seagrasses and large declines occurred in Chincoteague Bay and Sinepuxent Bay. The overall scores for phosphorus, Chlorophyll a, and hard clams were similar to last year. Smith said the Maryland Coastal Bays Program will focus on best management practices on agricultural lands, more stormwater improvements in urban landscapes and improve the management of residential properties by reducing fertilizers and installing native plants. He said that program will continue addressing water quality issues, from nutrient enrichment to stormwater. The group will also work to increase property owner participation in wetlands restoration – particularly headwater streams — planting riparian forest and other measures to keep sediment and nutrients from entering the waterways. “We’ll need to keep our foot to the pedal on these issues if we want to continue to improve the health of the
bays,” Smith said. He remains hopeful about the future of the coastal bays. “We are seeing certain improvements from the work the county has done to improve septics and wastewater treatment outflows,” Smith said. Jesien added that “hope is tempered with the realization that we live in a changing world and that new challenges will pop up in places that we never expected.” “For example, emerging contaminants such as microplastics and the forever chemicals called PFAS, may be cause for concern in the near future,” he said. “Certainly our changing climate will present challenges. But, again, working together, we feel confident that we will be able to meet those new challenges.” Other nonprofit organizations and local residents are also working to address water quality. Residents in the St. Martin watershed have been raising oysters with the help of the Protectors of the St. Martin. “The oyster gardening program is very successful in promoting shoreline property owners to grow and learn about oysters,” Jesien said.
The oysters have been released on a reef at the mouth of the St. Martin River. “We know that having a healthy oyster population in the bays would be a benefit for water quality,” he continued. “Oyster growers in the St. Martin have told us that they see a noticeable improvement in water quality where they are raising the oysters. That is certainly believable since we know about the filtering capabilities of the oysters and other filter feeders. But we don’t have definitive measurements to confirm this.” Aquaculture operations are also happening in Chincoteague Bay. Jesien said there are a variety of things everyone can do to address the health of the coastal bays. “We all need to work together to raise the grade,” he said. “Simple things that homeowners can do include to make sure that pet waste is picked up, minimize lawn fertilizer, and use native plants. Agencies can be vigilant for illegal practices along shorelines and forests. Voters should demand that agencies get adequate funding to ensure continued monitoring of resources and for compliance.”
October 26-November 2 DA AY/TIME Fri-Mon, 11am-4pm Saturrday 10am-Noon Saturrday 11am-1pm Saturrday 10am-1pm Saturrday 2-4pm Sunday Noon-2pm Saturrday 1-3pm Saturrday Noon-2pm Saturrday 1-3pm Saturrday 10am-2pm Sunday 11am-2pm Saturrday 1-3pm
ADDRESS
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Condos, Towns & SF Nanette Pavier/Holiday Real R Estate Townhouse $425,000 Power of 2 Team/Hileman Real R Estate Residential $725,000 Power of 2 Team/Hileman Real R Estate Residential $2,499,900 Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty Residential $739,900 Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty Residential $535,000 Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty Residential $440,000 Su Mei Prrete/BHHS/PenF Fed Realty Residential $729,900 Elaine Davidson/RE/MAX Adv vantage Realty Condominium $215,000 Team Bouse/RE/MAX Advan ntage Realty Residential $169,900 Larry Holdrren e II/Larry Holdrre en Real Estate Residential $169,900 Larry Holdrren e II/Larry Holdrre en Real Estate Residential $444,900 Sandra Dougan/BHHS/Pen nFed Realty
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OCTOBER 27, 2023
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Ocean City Today
REAL ESTATE REPORT
Realtors keep eye on Missouri trial By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Oct. 27, 2023) The real estate industry is watching the Sitzer/Burnett commission trial take place in Kansas City, Missouri, right now. The Sitzer/Burnett lawsuit is based on antitrust claims from five Missouri home sellers who said they weren’t aware that commission rates were negotiable and called for buyers to compensate their own agents. The plaintiffs are seeking $1.78 billion in damages. The trial began last week and is scheduled to run for two more, but it has been inching its way through the court system for years. The defendants in the case include the National Association of Realtors as well as several major franchisors including Keller Williams, HomeServices of America, and their subsidiaries Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and Real Living Real Estate. Additional defendants are Anywhere (comprised of Coldwell Banker, Century 21, ERA and Sotheby’s, to name a few) and
RE/MAX, but both of the companies have proposed settlements filed with the court, so they will be questioned at the trial. The Missouri home sellers complaint is that the National Association of Realtors and various franchisors conspired to suppress competition and keep commissions high, specifically revolving around the historically common industry practice of having
home sellers pay commissions on both sides of a transaction through “cooperation” with agents representing buyers. The plaintiffs are set to wrap up their case on Monday, after which the defendants will begin calling witnesses. — Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City.
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Shore United promotion Shore United Bank recently announced the promotion of Tom Mears as the regional president in the coastal region, serving the coastal areas of Delaware and Maryland. A news release said Mears’ background in banking, personal accomplishments and dedication to his team and community earned him then new role. He joined Shore United Bank after spending a large portion of his career at Mercantile Bank. Along with his banking experience in banking, Mears’ expertise began from a solid educational foundation
as a 1988 graduate of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech). He also went to University of Maryland Banking School, University of Oklahoma Tom Mears Commercial Lending School and graduated from Leadership Maryland in 2013. Residing in Berlin with his wife, Laura, and two sons, Mears also serves on the board of directors for Atlantic General Hospital and chairs the investment committee. He is a board members and serves on the exContinued on Page 44
REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE
DOWNTOWN BAYFRONT with BOAT SLIP
PRICE REDUCED
OPEN HOUSE SAT. 10AM-2PM & SUN. 11AM-2PM 12346 OLD BRIDGE RD, WEST OCEAN CITY
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Larry E. Holdren II Realtor, GRI Associate Broker Direct Cell Phone: 1-443-366-4091 Email: MCSLLC@HOTMAIL.COM
MOVE-IN READY! 2-Bedroom 1-Bath, Nicely Landscaped Corner Lot. Move-In Ready. Land Lease is $595 Monthly and Covers Water & Sewer, Trash Pickup, Road Maintenance and Security Camera System in the Park. For Residence 50 & Over. Located in a desirable West Ocean City Communty. Only $169,900 Unfurnished. Call Now Before it is gone!! 13901 Coastal Hwy., 387 Ocean City, Md 21842 For More Information Call 800-252-2223 www.LarryHoldrenRealEstate.com
Larry Holdren Real Estate, Inc© 13901 Coastal Hwy., Suite 8, Ocean City, MD
For More Information Call 800-252-2223 • 410-250-2700 www.larryholdrenrealestate.com • email: ocmdhre@gmail.com
CELEBRATING 52 YEARS 1971-2023
PRICE REDUCED Located in the sought after community of Montego Bay and situated on an oversized corner lot, this 2-bedroom 2-bathroom home is being sold fully furnished and is ready for you to start enjoying! Upgrades include all new plumbing (2018), all new insulation underneath (2018), new deck boards (2021), and new porch enclosure windows (2022). Conveniently located within walking distance to shopping, dining, the beach, the bus stop, and Ocean City's 58-acre Northside Park, home of the 4th of July Fireworks, Winterfest of Lights, and much more. Community amenities include 2 inground swimming pools, 1 kiddie pool, 2 tennis courts, a shuffleboard court, pickle ball courts, a 9-hole mini-golf course, an 8-acre wildlife sanctuary/park area that includes a 5-acre pond with blacktop walking/jogging path, and a bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers...all for a low HOA fee of $396.00 a year!! $319,900
Call Bill Rothstein 800-745-5988 • 443-280-2530 montegobayrealty@aol.com
601 OYSTER LANE OCEAN CITY
PRICE REDUCED BRAND NEW and 2 BLOCKS to the BEACH!! Located in the highly sought after community of Montego Bay in quiet North OC, this custom built 2 story home has 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms with views of the canal out back from several different rooms. Interior features include a 2-story family room with cathedral ceilings, granite counters, white shaker-style cabinets, stainless steel appliances, full size washer & dryer, ceramic showers/baths, brushed nickel hardware, luxury vinyl plank flooring on first floor, and wall to wall carpet on 2nd level which includes a great room that could easily be used as a 4th bedroom. Great location within walking distance to shopping, dining, bus stop, the beach, Ocean City's 58 acre Northside Park (home of the 4th of July fireworks), and all community amenities which include 2 inground swimming pools, 1 kiddie pool, 2 tennis courts, pickle ball courts, shuffleboard court, 9-hole minigolf course, 8-acre wildlife sanctuary/park area, a 5-acre pond with a blacktop walking/jogging trail, and a bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers...all for a low HOA fee of $396.00 a year!! Don't miss this one, call now to schedule your private showing.
$799,900
12905 Coastal Hwy • Ocean City, MD www.montegobayrealty.com
13015 ATLANTIC BLVD • OCEAN CITY
$749,900
Call Bill Rothstein 800-745-5988 • 443-280-2530 montegobayrealty@aol.com
12905 Coastal Hwy • Ocean City, MD www.montegobayrealty.com
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Ocean City Today
OCTOBER 27, 2023
STOP OFFSHORE WIND • The Pentagon has stated offshore wind will interfere with national defense. • OSW isn’t clean or green. They take tremendous fossil fuel to manufacture, transport and install. They don’t run well and have failed every place they have been tried. The parts wear out quickly and can’t be recycled. We already have acres of land in Texas filled with old turbine parts. • They cause utility bills to quadruple. Yes, yours! • They harm the entire ecosystem of the ocean. Every plant, microorganism, fish, crab, lobster, and mammal will be displaced, hurt or killed. They also harm and kill migratory birds. • They destroy our fishing and crabbing industry, hurt tourism, and destroy property values. • We could make a 10-page flyer with all the horrors of wind farms. Just go to the Facebook page for videos and articles.
JOIN FACEBOOK GROUP Protect Ocean City Maryland
Sign our Petition
CINDY HOFFMAN/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Volunteer Nichole Action pulls a box off of a shelf during a Diakonia food drive last Saturday at the Ocean City convention center.
Students help with food drive at Diakonia, get service hours By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer (Oct. 27, 2023) It’s food drive season and this year, Diakonia is working with local schools to host drives that will allow students to receive service learning hours for their efforts. Currently, the nonprofit is working with both Stephen Decatur Middle and High schools, Wicomico High and Worcester Prep. The students will get a firsthand look at the programs Diakonia offers in the community and learn the importance of food drives to the nonprofit’s residents and families that
rely on them. “Any student that calls can get engaged,” said Susan Blaney, the community coordinator for Diakonia. She provides them with “how to” instructions so they can do their food drive on their own schedule. Some students help out at events too. Blaney had five students join her at the convention center on Saturday to collect leftovers from a food show with 80 vendors at the Maryland School Nutrition Association Convention. Three ninth graders from Stephen Decatur High School joined in the colSee VOLUNTEERS Page 45
BUSINESS BRIEFS Continued from Page 43 ecutive committee of the Delmarva Council - Boy Scouts as well. He has also served as president of United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore.
Bank promotion, hiring The Bank of Ocean City recently announced the promotion of Jennifer Devan and hiring of Steven Bollinger in a recent news release. Devan was promoted to senior vice president. She joined the Bank of Ocean City as vice president in May of 2021. She has over 27 years of banking experience in a variety of positions. Devan is a graduate of University of Pittsburgh, and is a certified regulatory compliance manager. She oversees the compliance management program, and internal audit function of the bank. Devan is also a member of the Government Relations Council for the Maryland Bankers Association and the American Bankers Association.
Bollinger joined the Bank of Ocean City with over 30 years of lending, portfolio management and credit administration experience. He is a graduate of Jennifer Devan the Central Atlantic School of Banking and holds a bachelor of science in accounting with a minor in business management from York College of Pennsylvania. Steven Bollinger Bollinger joined the bank from a larger Maryland-based bank. Bollinger has been appointed vice president/senior credit analyst. He has been active in serving the United Way and has worked on Habit for Humanity properties in Baltimore’s inner city. He is looking forward to finding opportunities to serve the Worcester County community.
OCTOBER 27, 2023
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Ocean City Today
CINDY HOFFMAN/OCEAN CITY TODAY CINDY HOFFMAN/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Susan Blaney, the community coordinator for Diakonia, poses with cans of fruit and vegetables that were donated from the Maryland School Nutrition Association conference during a food drive last Saturday at the Ocean City convention center.
Volunteers with Diakonia at the convention center on Saturday where they collected six truck loads of food from the Maryland School Nutrition Association Conference. Pictured, from left, are volunteer Doe Action, John Hanberry from the Kiwanis Club, and volunteers Nichole Action and Trinity Miles.
Volunteers learn about nonprofit’s programs Continued from Page 44 lection at the convention center, along with members of their families. “Diakonia helped me and I wanted to be able to help other people,” Student Doe Action said. Her mother, Nichole, said they wanted to do something that mattered. Student Daniel Kott came with his dad and sister. He heard about Diakonia from a food drive at his school last year. Student Hailey Lewis joined in the effort because she wanted to help an organization that gives back to the community and helps people in need. She is also running a food drive in her neighborhood this fall. The volunteers hauled six truck loads of food, including fresh and frozen foods, snacks, drinks and desserts. Some of the fresh food was served to residents that evening. Diakonia receives 2000 pounds of non-perishable food items from the government once a month. While it may seem like a lot, Blaney said that this can be gone in two weeks time. The food drives help supplement Di-
akonia for the rest of the month. Diakonia serves its residents breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. They also have a food pantry that serves about 250 families a week, as well as distributing street homeless backpacks. Food drives in November and December bring in about 20,000 to 30,000 pounds of food. Diakonia receives about the same amount in the spring from food drives. “We store this food like squirrels,” Blaney said. Beyond food drives, Diakonia is the benefactor of fresh food from numerous local businesses, including Starbucks, Panera, Chipotle, Chick fil A, Outback, Wawa, Food Lion and Acme. The restaurants and stores provide meats, dairy, fruits and vegetables. Blaney said people come from Worcester, Wicomico and Somerset counties because of the quality of food at the Diakonia pantry. Diakonia has 50 residents that live on site, including men and women. Twenty percent of the residents are children.
The organization is nearly full, with food storage on site, a working kitchen that serves residents meals and sleeping quarters as well as offices at the Ocean City location. Blaney said they will be launching a capital campaign to build a new facility on land off of 611. She hopes the new building will be open within the
next two to five years. People who want to donate but are not connected to one of the schools sponsoring a food drive can deliver donations directly to Diakonia, at 12747 Old Bridge Road in West Ocean City. For information on hosting a food drive, email info@diakoniaoc.org.
St. Luke Catholic Parish 22nd Annual
Christmas Bazaar Location: St. Andrew Catholic Center 14401 Sinepuxent Avenue Ocean City, MD
Saturday, November 11, 2023 9AM—5PM
DOWNTOWN OC MULTI-UNIT PROPERTY • NO HOA OR CONDO FEES Downtown multi-unit pro operty, NO HOA, large lot with elbow room, and garrage space! This property is zoned R-2 and offfers a 2 bedroom/2 bath unit on the upstairs, an effficie ency apartment with 1 full bath downstairs and amp ple garage/storage space on ground floor. The lot offfers 4,680 square feet with a large open grasssy area for your outdoor enjoyment, as well as futture addition of offff-street parking spaces, currentlyy the driveway allows for one car offf-street street. The sstructure dates back to 603 SAINT LOUIS AVENUE OCEAN CITY 1940, but it was extensive ely renovated in '98. Roof $649,900 approx. 5 years old. Grea at location one block offf the beautiful bayfront Edgewater Ave, and just 2 blocks offff the ocean. G Great opportunity to own your beach condo, space to store e your toys, and have a unit to rent o out for income!
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6200 Coastal Hwy S-101, Oceean City • Office: 410.524.6400
Raffles, Pictures with Santa, Christmas Room, Chinese Auction, Jewelry, Silent Auction, Books, White Elephant Gifts, Bake Sale, Wine Pull, Food
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Ocean City Today
CARE FOR PETS
OCTOBER 27, 2023
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Ocean City Elementary recently celebrated Care for Pets Spirit Day to kick off the school’s annual Worcester County Humane Society Drive. Students were invited to dress in animal prints, and wear pictures of a favorite animal or family pet. Throughout the month, a donation table for pet supplies will be set up in the school’s front lobby. Pictured, from left with some of this year's collected items, are Angeleah De Mott, Nia Mutavchiyski, Everly Trunzo and Naisa Kc.
BOE maintenance plan can advance for state approval By Remy Andersen Staff Writer (Oct. 27, 2023) The Board of Education unanimously approved the district’s Comprehensive Maintenance Plan, which can now be forwarded to the state construction committee, at a meeting last Tuesday. The purpose of the plan is to develop, maintain and improve the maintenance of Worcester County Public Schools, to assist the education programs and to ensure the safety and health of students and staff. The plan works in conjunction with the Educational Facilities Master Plan. That plan sets forth longterm goals the physical infrastructure of all of the schools, while the maintenance plan makes certain the goals can be reached by keeping each school in good condition. The maintenance plan states that in order to keep the infrastructure sustainable, routine inspections and preventative maintenance is essential, as it can identify arising issues within the facilities before they become bigger problems. Maintaining and enhancing safety features within the school makes sure that faculty and students are kept safe. Schools must comply with building codes, accessibility standards, fire safety regulations, and environmental regulations to ensure the goal is met. As Worcester County Public Schools strive to effectively manage maintenance costs, the maintenance plan states that planning mainte-
nance schedules and using predictive techniques can help minimize costly facility repairs. In working to reduce their environmental impact, schools have invested in energy-efficient upgrades, renewable energy sources, and green building practices to reduce longterm operational costs and environmental footprints. County schools also keep close inventory on facilities and equipment and track the condition of maintenance assets. That helps guide decisions on what to repair, replace, and upgrade over the long term. Another long-term goal involves the integration of technology into school maintenance. That would involve using computerized maintenance management systems to make handling work orders and tracking the history of each facility’s maintenance easier. As modernization of the current school buildings are reviewed, the maintenance plan suggests repurposing or renovating the existing schools to accommodate new teaching methodology, technology requirements and student enrollment. The maintenance plan states that in short, the maintenance of the public school system encourages sustainable and efficient management of each school to ensure they all remain safe, cost-efficient, and conforming to ever-changing educational needs. This involves careful planning, budgeting, and committing to enhancing the overall learning environment for both students and staff.
OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
PAGE 47
Farm to School Month at Buckingham Elem. Local farmer gave nutrition advice, shared fresh food with young eager students (Oct. 27, 2023) As part of Worcester County Public Schools’ celebration of National Farm to School Month, students at Buckingham Elementary School recently met a local farmer, received nutrition lessons and sampled fresh kale from Cross Farms. In 2010, Congress declared October National Farm to School Month in recognition of the role farm-toschool plays in promoting well-being among children and building strong local economies. According to a news release, the program helps cultivate the connection communities have with fresh, healthy food and local food producers. The release said it is important for students to have a greater understanding of where their food comes from and how agriculture has an impact on their health. Farm-to-school empowers children and their families to make informed food choices, which leads to a healthier community. As part of the celebration, Buckingham Elementary School welcomed Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education Educator Caitlin Daw and local farmer
Pictured, from left, are local farmer Carol Cross from Cross Cross Farms in Berlin and Assistance Program Education Educator Caitlin Daw addressing Buckingham Elementary School students about nutrition and healthy lifestyles on Oct. 18 in recognition of National Farm to School Month. SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OCEAN CITY TODAY
Carol Cross to school last week to provide lessons in nutrition and host a school-wide taste test of local produce. The release said Daw told the students the importance of making healthy meal choices to build a healthy lifestyle that can last through their entire lives. Using tools like the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s MyPlate, students learn how balanced meals can keep their bodies fit and
orget Don't fit our to vis P FT SHO I G N A ARTIS more Holiday for Items
Saturday, November 4 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Pine’eer Craft Club Bake Sale Breakfast & Lunch Items Available in the Kiwanis Cafe (in the Marlin Room) Free Admission and Free Parking Sponsored by the Ocean Pines
PINE’EER CRAFT CLUB For more information call: Debbie at 410-430-7855 or Barbara at 706-362-4733
ready for activity such as sports and play. Cross, who owns and operates Cross Farms in Berlin, brought kale from her farm to provide a schoolwide taste test of a sweet potato and kale salad. Worcester County Public Schools recently incorporated Cross Farms’ naturally grown produce into school breakfasts and lunches. The collaboration helps students gain access to healthy foods and also
strengthens the local economy. “Giving students the opportunity to taste nutritious foods in school at an early age is vital to establishing a lifelong commitment to a healthy lifestyle,” Coordinator of Food Service Odtis Collins said in the release. “We’re grateful to both Cross Farms and the SNAP-Ed program for enabling us to bring such a wonderful experience to the children of Buckingham Elementary.”
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Ocean City Today
OCTOBER 27, 2023
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
SHOW WINNERS
The winners of the Abstract Art Show at the art league’s center for the arts in October pose together for a photo during the First Friday reception. Pictured, from left, are Gregg Rosner, honorable mention; Patti Smith, honorable mention; show judge Deborah Rolig; Susan Lemar, third place; and Art League of Ocean City board president John Sisson, who handed out cash prizes.
OCTOBER 27, 2023
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Ocean City Today
AGH achieves ‘most wired’ tech distinction Local hospital named in top 1 percent above peers in national survey for ‘23 (Oct. 27, 2023) Atlantic General Hospital and Health System was recently named the recipient of the Most Wired Level 8 distinction for both the acute and ambulatory care settings. The distinction was announced in the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives’ October re-
lease of the 2023 Digital Health Most Wired Survey results. According to a news release from the hospital, among the more than 55,000 facilities represented, Atlantic General ranked in the top 1 percent, above peers in categories such as analytics and data management, population health, infrastructure and patient engagement. The survey assessed the adoption, integration and impact of technologies in health care organizations at all stages of development, from
early development to industry leading. Among the multitude of IT-supported initiatives included in the organization’s survey was online appointment scheduling, the release said. Initially rolled out in late 2021, the secure web-based scheduling service was first made available to current patients of AGH seeking appointments with the network’s primary care providers and specialists. This month, the appointment scheduling feature was fully integrated
into FollowMyHealth, the patient portal tool associated with the organization’s electronic medical record. And, by the end of the calendar year the webbased scheduling tool, which allows individuals to search by provider and available appointment dates and times, will be extended to new patients. It also follows the expansion of mobile features such as text-based appointment confirmation and cancelation capabilities and advance check-ins for appointments.
Your Online Community: www.oceancitytoday.com
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Ocean City Today
SUNFEST 2023
The 48th annual Sunfest brought over 100,000 visitors to the Ocean City Inlet from Oct. 19 to Oct. 22. It featured bike races, Halloween activities, pet shows and competitions, vendors and six to seven concerts each day. This was the second year Sunfest was held in late October rather than late September, when it was historically scheduled. Pictured are visitors and performers on Oct. 19. HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY
OCTOBER 27, 2023
OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
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COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
COSTUME CONTEST The Art League of Ocean City held a costume contest Oct. 21 at its Horror Film Night, presented by the Ocean City Film Festival, at the center for the arts on 94th Street. Pictured, from left, are B.L.Strang-Moya, film festival creative director; John Infanti, first place winner; Rob Simmons, second place winner; Lizzie Finnegan, third place winner; and Davis Mears, film night coordinator.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
PUMPKIN PICKING Students from Jennifer Fohner's pre-kindergarten class at Ocean City Elementary pose with pumpkins they picked during a recent field trip to Parsons Farm in Dasboro, Delaware.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
COUNTY DEDICATION
LEGION DONATION
The Worcester County Commissioners and representatives of the Eastern Shore Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland celebrated White Cane Awareness Day in Worcester County on Oct. 15. Pictured, from left with the proclamation, are federation chapter President Anne Joyner, with Heather Guy, Cathy Moody and Amy Crouse.
Members of American Legion Post 166 made a donation during their September meeting to the Marshall Legacy Institute of Alexandria, Virginia, which trains dogs to sniff out landmines to deactivate them. Pictured, from left, with the donation are Post 166 member Ben Dawson, dog handler Anne Wooleyhand and Post 166b member Tom Ottenwaelder. Post members also watched Wooleyhand demonstrate and work her bomb-sniffing dog, Rico, a Belgian Malinois.
BARN OWL LESSON Members of the Worcester County Garden Club recently learned about barn owls from Tom Humphrey, a lifelong birder/falconer who is licensed to band birds of prey, during a recent meeting held at Gull Creek Senior Living. Pictured, from left, during the meeting are Club First Vice President Joan LaHayne, President Suzy Young and Humphrey. SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OCEAN CITY TODAY
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
MARINE CORPS DONATION Don Coffin with the First State Detachment of the Marine Corps League announces the donation of $1,000 to the Selbyville Volunteer Fire Company during a recent check presentation. Pictured, from left, holding the ceremonial check are fire company President Matt Silwa and Dave Kline, with the detachment.
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Ocean City Today
OCTOBER 27, 2023
COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS
The students pose for a picture with their teachers in front of a truck filled with pumpkins. Pictured, far left, are Teacher Erica Phillips and Assistant Jennifer Hoen. Pictured, far right, are Assistant Ingrid Poffenberger and Teacher Heather Dennis.
Will Rafinski, Carter Grahn and Barney Hall ride the tractor out to the pumpkin fields together.
WORCESTER PREP KINDERGARTEN FIELD TRIP TO PARSONS FARMS Worcester Prep kindergartners recently took a field trip to Parsons Farms in Dagsboro, Delaware. The students rode a tractor to the pumpkin fields and picked their own pumpkins to take home, learned about different crops grown at the farm and the life cycle of pumpkins, visited with the animals, and played games.
Harper Hunt gives Fiona the horse a kiss.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Kindergartners Winslow Ross and Arden Pyne show off their pumpkin picks.
Carter Grahn feeds a goat.
Paislynn Hutchins, Matias Escamilla-Aliullov, Nicole Raychev, Miles Fortunato, Skylar Marsh, Leroy JohnsonThomas, Milana Christensen and Brenden Gerner ride around Parsons Farms.
OCTOBER 27, 2023
Ocean City Today
FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Participants in the 2023 AGH Penguin Swim run to the water in front of the Princess Royale on 91st Street on New Years Day. The 2024 swim is set for this Jan. 1.
Council approves details for AGH penguin swim on Jan. 1 By Mallory Panuska Managing Editor (Oct. 27, 2023) The 30th Atlantic General Hospital Penguin Swim is officially on the books for New Year’s Day on the beach and ocean in front of the Princess Royale Hotel on 91st Street. Set 9 a..m to 1 p.m., Jan. 1, City Council members approved details for the annual event last week. The swim consists of participants running to the cold ocean to raise money for the hospital. According to a staff report, public works staff will clean the beach, provide trash cans and install alcohol and glass restriction signs in the
event footprint. Police will provide the assistance of on-duty officers, and fire and EMS will provide four to five rescue swimmers or divers. The staff report said the event has taken place in Ocean City for 29 years. Risk management and Beach Patrol officials said there have not been any issues with past events and expect this year’s swim to be the same. The organizer will pay the town a total $170.50 in asset and support and private event fees to hold the event. For more information about the penguin swim, visit aghpenguinswim.org.
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Commentary
Ocean City Today Oct. 27, 2023
Page 54
OC voting district smallest in county The mayor and City Council have to be riding high following the overwhelming success of the Oceans Calling Festival and a solid Sunfest weekend. Two winners with no real flubs suggest that the resort town is going in the right direction. But, as economically solid as Ocean City is, it does have a small problem: its year-round population is dwindling. Further, the county government redistricting process that’s getting underway makes the nature of the situation clear. According to the 2020 census, on which redistricting is based, the Ocean City District (District 7) is now almost 8 percent smaller than the other jurisdictions. Because the laws of redistricting require authorities to create voting districts of roughly equal populations, this county has six districts containing roughly 7,600 residents each, while Ocean City has 6,934. Ten years ago, Ocean City had 7,213 residents, or about the same as everywhere else. The departure of 200 to 300 residents since then is not the end of the world, but it is worrisome when other areas of the county are gaining. It isn’t inconceivable that, in another 10 years, county planning officials will have no choice but to draw a District 7 voting map that encompasses a portion of West Ocean City to maintain district population equality. It’s great that Ocean City does so much to boost tourism and support businesses, but some attention needs to be paid to the year-rounders, or there could come a time when the county commissioner who represents Ocean City might not be living in Ocean City at all, but on the other side of the bridge.
Ocean City Today 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Phone: 410-723-6397 / Fax: 410-723-6511.
EDITOR ............................................ Stewart Dobson MANAGING EDITOR............................ Mallory Panuska STAFF WRITERS ................Cindy Hoffman, Hunter Hine, ..............................................................Remy Andersen ACCOUNT MANAGERS.......... Mary Cooper, Vicki Shrier ..................................................................Renée Kelly CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS MANAGER ............ Taylor Sloan PAPER COMPOSITION/PAGE DESIGN ...... Susan Parks GRAPHIC ARTISTS ............ Kelly Brown, Jane Leibowitz PUBLISHER........................................ Christine Brown ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT ...................... Gini Tufts Ocean City Today is published weekly by FLAG Publications, Inc. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Ocean City Today is available by subscription at $150 a year. Visit us on the Web at www.oceancitytoday.com. Copyright 2023
PUBLIC EYE
Foolproof and secure
I’ve been thinking about this secure messaging business, and how law enforcement nationwide is tired of everyone with a police scanner knowing what they’re up to and where t h e y ’ r e going. I get it, but then it occurred to me that the people who came up with By the term “best pracStewart tices” and Dobson then applied it to every single thing they could think of — “best practices” police communications, “best practices” bookkeeping, “best practices” sweater lint removal— missed the absolute best practice in the world of law enforcement secure messaging systems. The Bat Signal. Easy to do, easy to maintain, impossible to hack. I mean, how many times did Batman show up at the scene, find the miscreants had scattered, and say, “Aw, jeez, they hacked my searchlight!” Never. Not once. The thing is, of course, no one has any idea how Bat-
man knows where to go after he sees the signal. He just spots it in the sky and minutes later swoops down out of nowhere and beats the hell out of whoever needs it. You don’t hear him listening for directions in the Batmobile. “Batman, Batman, this is Commissioner Gordon. What’s your 20?” “Um, on the corner of Joker Street and Penguin Drive. Where do need me?” “Okay, turn at Joker Street, then take the second left, go five blocks where you’ll come to a traffic circle and ...” Doesn’t happen. He just
shows up and, again, beats the hell out of people who need it. And how does he do that? Well, that’s a secret, isn’t it? Which just proves how good his system is. Not even Jim Gordon knows how it works. “So, Jim, how does Batman know where to go?” “Beats me, he just shows up and ...” How the people at “Best Practices” missed that, I couldn’t tell you. As for my Bat Signal suggestion, it is heartily recommended by the people at “The Best You Can Do Under the Circumstances Practices,” which is good enough for me.
OCTOBER 27, 2023
Letters to the editor Concerns over condo insurance premiums Editor: Hunter Hine did a great job reporting on how the new reserve study requirements, forced on Ocean City Condo Associations with little notice by our leaders in Annapolis, are impacting condo owners in Ocean City. But what people also need to understand is that in addition to this, condo association building insurance premiums have risen in the 50-80 percent range in the last couple of years as well. And now Ocean City government is talking about raising the room tax again. All these increases mean that unless you rent out your condo, and substantially raise your rates, most families or retirees will no longer be able to afford to own a condo in Ocean City let alone rent one. Condo rentals were already down this year due to the exorbitant rental rates that some companies are charging. Families are not coming to Ocean City and spending upwards of $5,000 for a
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Ocean City Today
week when they can go somewhere else more exciting for less money. I have spoken with some long-time condo owners that say they are basically being forced to sell because they can’t keep up with all the increases. I have spoken with business owners that said this year was not good for them as well. I have noticed that people are requesting rentals for long weekends instead of a week because that is all they can afford. Where is this all leading? Perhaps Ocean City will no longer be a place to bring your family in the summer. Perhaps Ocean City becomes a place where weekends are filled with a bunch of young, rowdy adults who can afford to come to town to party and wreak havoc on the community. I don’t have the answers but Ocean City leaders need to understand what is happening because my fear is, in a couple of years, this will be a very different town. Dora J Benedetti Ocean City
Drug take back day slated for Saturday at Elks Lodge (Oct. 27, 2023) National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is this weekend, and the Ocean City Elks Lodge #2645 and the resort police department have teamed up to collect expired, unused and unwanted prescription medications. According to a news release, the effort helps prevent drug abuse and theft, as well as helping to prevent the pollution of landfills and water supplies. It could also save the lives of pets. Residents are asked to check
their medicine cabinets and collect unwanted drugs and medications to drop off between 1 and 3 p.m., Oct. 28, at the Ocean City Elks Lodge between 137th and 138th streets, bayside, in Ocean City. Those who come to the lodge to drop off medications do not have to be Elks members. Members of the Ocean City Police Department will handle the proper disposal of the medication. Liquids and sharps will not be accepted.
Have an opinion? We invite you to share it, but all letters are subject to verification, so please include your name and phone number. All letters are subject to editing for space and to protect the author and this newspaper from legal action. Email letters to editor@oceancitytoday.net. For questions, call 410-723-6397.
OceanCityToday.com RELIABLE & LOCAL NEWS
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Ocean City Today
OCTOBER 27, 2023
OCVFC VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Mathias recognized for service with OCVFC By Steve Price Contributing Writer (Oct. 27, 2023) This week we recognize a true “icon” in the Ocean City community and an unwavering supporter of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company, Past OCVFC chaplain and current Life Member, Jim Mathias Jr. As a businessman in the community and throughout his many years of public service, both to the people of Ocean City as a councilmember and mayor, and to the residents of the Lower Eastern Shore as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates and state senator, Firefighter Mathias remained an active and involved member of the OCVFC. Mathias currently serves as the director of government relations for the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Mathias joined the OCVFC in 1988 following the Beachcomber Motel fire of June 12, 1988, resulting in the death of two young women from Pennsylvania and injuries to several others. He was on the scene that morning and was motivated “to do more to save lives and protect property in the resort.” During his 17 years of active service, Mathias served as OCVFC chaplain for over ten years, assisting members and their families during difficult times. He was always available to support, encourage and provide spiritual and emotional
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
In a photo from the 1980s, Jim Mathias, third from left, back row, poses with fellow Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company firefighters and his young son, Trevor, in front of Engine #703. Pictured, from left, are firefighters John Romeo, Mike Leyden, Mathias, Mike Sacca, Bruce Krasner and Kim Wells. Holding the hose with Trevor is Firefighter Rany Sherman.
guidance to those seeking assistance. Firefighter Mathias recalls several significant events during his years as a member of OCVFC including the Ninth Street Boardwalk fire during Sunfest Week in 1994, the Hooper’s Crab House fire of January 2002, and the
nine-alarm Dough Roller restaurant fire on the Boardwalk in March 2008. Mathias also recognizes the wide-ranging skills, training and teamwork used by OCVFC members in responding to a variety of emergency calls in the community including motor vehicle accidents with injuries and rescues, assisting the Ocean City Beach Patrol with surf rescues, and assisting OCEMS and the Maryland State Police with “Medevacs” of seriously injured individuals to a trauma center. Chaplain Mathias cites his acceptance as a member of the OCVFC and serving as chaplain to the members as his greatest accomplishment in the fire service. He was humbled to be inducted into the Maryland State Firemen’s Association Hall of Fame and was proud to
serve as a member of the OCVFC Disaster Recovery Team responding to fellow Coastal Communities in their time of need after being “hit” by a major hurricane or storm. During Chaplain/Firefighter Mathias’s active years of service in the OCVFC and while serving as Ocean City Mayor (1996-2006), two major national public safety incidents occurred – Hurricane Katrina (Aug. 29, 2005) and the Terrorist Attacks on America (Sept. 11, 2001). In both incidents he and members of the OCVFC Disaster Recovery Team provided assistance to the national recovery efforts. In appreciation of the response and efforts by the Town of Ocean City and the OCVFC to the World Trade Center tragedy, NYPD ofSee MATHIAS Page 57
OCTOBER 27, 2023
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OCVFC VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT WORLD WAR II
Mathias supports teamwork among fellow firefighters Continued from Page 56 ficials presented Mayor Mathias, OCVFC Chief Roger Steger, OCVFC First Assistant Chief David Cropper and OCVFC President Jay Jester with a rare memento – a section of a “steel beam” from the World Trade Center. “Once part of the World Trade Center, this twisted piece of steel rests here [at the Ocean City Firefighter Memorial] as an enduring memorial to the 343 New York City firefighters who cherished in their desperate attempt to save lives on September 11, 2001.We will never forget,” the caption read. Jim would like to “pass on” the following advice to OCVFC cadets and young men and women with an interest in the fire service: “Learn the value of teamwork. Earn the trust of your fellow firefighters and Line Officers. You will gain great personal gratification from helping others and serving your community.” We thank Chaplin Mathias for his many years of serving our community as a public servant and as a volunteer firefighter. For membership information or to learn more about your volunteer fire company, visit ocvfc.com.
Japanese fire attacks on Changde By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer This week, 80 years ago, the Imperial Japanese Army launched its assault on the Chinese city of Changde. Changde is located in the Hunan province on the Yuan River, where it joins with the Dongting Lake. There has been a city on that location since the 2nd century B.C. It only became known as Changde in 1117. Currently, it boasts a population of 5,200,000. The Japanese Eleventh Army, commanded by Lt. Gen. Isamu Yokoyama, launched its offensive on Nov. 2, 1943. Gen. Yokoyama sent the 3rd, 13th, 39th, 58th, 68th and 116th Divisions, totaling 60,000 soldiers against the city. After the war, Gen. Yokoyama was convicted of war crimes for the medical experiments performed on downed Allied airmen and sentenced to death. His death sentence was commuted to life in prison, where he died on April 27, 1952. Changde was defended by the Sixth War Zone commanded by Sun Lianzhong. Gen. Lianzhong was the hero of the Chinese victory over the Japanese in the Battle of Taierzhuang in spring 1938 — AKA “The Stalingrad of the East.” Most of the civilian population of Changde was evacu-
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Chinese troops in combat at Changde
ated. The city garrison consisted of the 57th Division, commanded by Yu Chengwan, of 8,000 men. Gen. Chengwan had received orders to defend the city until death. Gen. Chengwan’s 57th Division held onto the city for 11 days. The Japanese 13th Division — the “Mirror Division” — commanded by Lt. Gen. Tsutomu Akashika, broke through the Chinese defenses on Nov. 14. Gen. Akashika’s 13th Division was reinforced by the 3rd and the elite 116th Divisions (the “Storm
Division”), commanded by Lt. Gens. Mitsuo Emomoto and Hiroshi Iwanaga. The Japanese finally captured the city on Dec. 6, 1943. While the Japanese were struggling to capture Changde, the Chinese were encircling the besiegers. Troops from the Ninth War Area, commanded by Gen. Xue Yue, came to the rescue of the defenders of Changde. Gen. Yue was nicknamed by American Gen. Claire Lee Chennault, commander of the Flying Continued on Page 58
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OCTOBER 27, 2023
OBITUARIES FLORENCE E. FRANKLIN Bishopville Florence Ella Franklin, 84, of Bishopville, passed away on Oct. 17, 2023 surrounded by family at Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin. She was born in Millsboro, Delaware, to the late Clarence and Edith Rust on Feb. 22, 1939. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, Medford Clyde Franklin Sr. She is survived by two siblings, Mary Ann Terry of Mississippi and Clarence Rust of Dagsboro, Declare; five children, M. Clyde Franklin Jr. (Colleen), Millsboro, Delaware; Bonny Timmons (Frankie E. Timmons Sr.), Bishopville; John M. Franklin, Georgetown, Delaware; Bruce E. Franklin, Quantico; Jean Ann Jarmon (Ricky), Millsboro, Delaware. She has 14 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Florence requested no services. Arrangements are in the care of Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service, 504 Franklin Ave., Berlin, Maryland 21811. To send condolences to the family, please visit easternshorecremation.com. CHARLES OWEN ROUSE Ocean Pines Charles Owen Rouse, age 73, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023 at Tidal Health in Salisbury.
Born in Baltimore to the late Charles R. Rouse and Mary Bernadette Rouse, Charles was the second oldest of six children in a close, loving family. After graduating from college, he obtained a masters of social work from Washington University in 1998 and a masters of business administration from Fontbonne College in 1998. He enjoyed a career of service, most recently helping addicts escape a life of addiction with Reach Behavioral Health in Baltimore. In his youth, Charles summered at the family home on Fifth Street in Ocean City, working at such venerable establishments as The Embers, Pappy’s Restaurant and Candy Kitchens, where he often displayed his fudge-making skills in the window of the Sixth Street Boardwalk front store. Charles retired to Ocean Pines where he volunteered at the Ocean Pines Library serving as treasurer of the board, and as a docent and on the board of the Skipjack Nathan of Dorchester County. He was a skilled sailor and raced for the North Point Sailing Club in Edgemere, and also a bridge player in the Ocean Pines Sanctioned Bridge Club. He is survived by his sister, Eileen Leonhart of Ocean Pines; and his brothers, Mark Rouse of Towson,
John Rouse of Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania and Thomas Rouse of Timonium; and many nieces and nephews. Interment will be family affair with a luncheon in his honor to be held at a future date. MICHAEL (MIKE) SHOEMAKER Frankford, Delaware Michael (Mike) Shoemaker, 70, of Frankford, Delaware, passed away on Oct. 18, 2023. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Jeanne Shoemaker; his brother, Dennis (Denny) Shoemaker; six nieces, three nephews and many cousins. Mike was preceded in death by his father, Walter E Shoemaker; and his mother, Betty J Shoemaker. During his 39-year career, Mike worked at TA Beach Corp, Kelly M. Shoemaker Electric, and for 17 years as financial secretary for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 26 in Washington D.C. He was a third generation union electrician and dedicated his time and efforts to his profession. He retired in 2015. A visitation and service will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Nov. 5 at Beall Funeral Home, 6512 Crain Hwy., Bowie, Maryland. Followed by a Celebration of Life
$1,445.
at IBEW Local 26, 4371 Parliament Place, Lanham, Maryland. A private interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests that contributions can be made to the following organizations: Neuro Challenge Foundation For Parkinson’s, 722 Apex Rd, Suite A, Sarasota, Florida, 34240, 941-9266413; or Best Friends Animal Society, 5001 Angel Canyon Rd, Kanab Utah, 84741, 435-644-2001. Arrangements are in the care of Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service, 504 Franklin Ave., Berlin, Maryland 21811. To send condolences to the family, visit easternshorecremation.com.
WORLD WAR II Continued from Page 57 Tigers, as the “Patton of Asia.” He was known by his countrymen as, “The God of War.” It was he, leading the Guangdong First Army, that forced Mao Zedong and the Communists on the “Long March,” in 1934/5 (actually a 5600-mile, year-long retreat!) The Ninth War Area’s X Corps, commanded by Fang Xianjue, attacked the Japanese besiegers on Nov. 29. As the Japanese began to give way, they resorted to the use of chemical and biological weapons. On Dec. 11, Chinese reinforcements cut through the Japanese lines and entered the city. Fighting was house to house. The Chinese also cut the Japanese supply line, which caused the Japanese to retreat on Dec. 13. On Jan. 5, 1944, Japanese forces were back to their original positions. In literal obedience to his orders, by the time Chinese reinforcements arrived, all but 100 wounded survivors were left of Gen. Chengwan’s 57th Division. Although not confirmed by the Japanese, American and British claim that 40,000 Japanese were killed and wounded, and many more thousands taken prisoner. The Chinese also lost the following three Division Commanders: Sun Mingjin, 10th Reserve Division, Tenth Army, Dec. 1, 1943; Lt. Gen. Xu Guozhang, commander 150th Division, FortyFourth Army, Nov. 20, 1943, by suicide: and Lt. Gen. Peng Shiliang, Commander 5th Reserve Division, Seventy-Third Army, Nov. 15, 1943. In 2010, the Chinese movie, “Death and Glory in Changde” was released, which tells the story of the battle. Next week: Red Army Captures Kiev Mr. Wimbrow writes from Ocean City, Maryland, where he practices law representing those persons accused of criminal and traffic offenses, and those persons who have suffered a personal injury through no fault of their own. He can be contacted at: wimbrowlaw@gmail.com.
OCTOBER 27, 2023
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Sports & Recreation
Ocean City Today Oct. 27, 2023
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Worcester Prep golf team named ESIAC champions (Oct. 27, 2023) The Worcester Prep golf team won the ESIAC conference championship on Oct. 19 at River Marsh Golf Club in Cambridge. Dawson Davis shot 40; Owen West and Mike DePalma, ESIAC player of the year, both shot 40; Aleksey Klimins shot 38; Vanesska Hall, medalist, shot 36; and Karrigan Russell-Woods shot 37. The team’s ESIAC record for the year is 12 wins zero losses. For the third year in a row, the team is undefeated in ESIAC conference play. Coach Don McMullen said in an email last week that “it was a nice season,” for the team.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Pictured, from left, are members of the Worcester Prep ESIAC all conference team Mike DePalma, Aleksey Klimins, Vanesska Hall, Owen West, Karrigan Russell-Woods and Kain Crossett.
PHOTOS BY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Number 14 Hunter Simons hits a head shot to number 2 Ryan Mann.
WPS varsity soccer season ends on high note By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer (Oct. 27, 2023) Just minutes into the game, Worcester Prep Soccer standout and “Player of the Year” Dylan McGovern slammed the first of four-goals he would make last Friday afternoon during a home field 6-1 win against Gunston High School. Senior McGovern did what his coach told the team to do. “They were fantastic,” said Stephen Decatur second-year Head Coach Jake Perry of his players. “I challenged them before the game just to get an early goal to set the tone and that’s what we did that and pressed right away. I think it
was only two or three minutes off the clock and we didn’t let up from there.” McGovern’s brother, Ben, a junior, scored the second goal with 29:65 minutes on the clock with an assist by senior Hunter Simons. With 27:06 minutes still remaining on the first half clock, and an assist from sophomore Chase Ginnavan, D. McGovern struck again. The Mallards of Worcester Prep went into intermission with a comfortable 30 lead. They returned to finish the job. Senior Cole Campbell scored a second half goal against Gunston at 12:50 minutes. D. McGovern scored the team’s last two goals. The first was at
11:30 minutes and the final at 8:17 minutes. Gunston’s only glory hit the net at 5:02 minutes remaining, making the score 6-1. The victory placed the Mallards first in the ESIAC with an 8-0 record for the school year Looking into the future Coach Perry said, “We’re losing four-players, but I’ve got some I can pull from the bench and we’ll see what freshmen come in.” In addition to the game, the 2023 Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference (ESIAC) Varsity Boys Soccer hardware was distributed to the following players: Worcester Prep: Dylan McGovern,
Ben McGovern, Hunter Simons, Cole Campbell and Connor Ferguson. From Gunston High School: Rowan Larkin, Jaden Mahaffy, Jan Serravinals and Quinn Baughman. From Delmarva Christian: Jay Parrish, Isaiah Walton and Kasey Bell From the Salisbury School: Colby Sieg and Will Potterton. From Salisbury Christian: Gavin Schroen. Honorable Mention: Max CarpenterWorcester, Ethan Harper-Gunston, Quinn Downs- Delmarva Christian, Sam Willis-Salisbury School, Thomas Cooper-Salisbury Christian
OCTOBER 27, 2023
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AGH golf tournament raises $87K for hospital foundation (Oct. 27, 2023) The Atlantic General Hospital Foundation’s annual Robert E. Warfield Memorial Tournament recently raised more than $87,000 for the hospital’s foundation. The event, held Sept. 21, at the Ocean City Golf Club, was attended by 182 golfers on 45 teams, who each played a total of 18 holes. Participants, volunteers and Atlantic General staff shared a day full of golf, food, and fun. According to a news release, proceeds from the tournament help Atlantic General Hospital, a nonprofit healthcare organization, to advance the health of local residents and visitors through a coordinated care delivery system that provides access to quality care, personalized service and education. In the release, AGH officials thanked the volunteers of the event with some specific shoutouts to tournament and organizers and the golf club. The sponsors were also recognized:
Legacy Sponsor The Carousel Group (for 24 consecutive years) Signature Sponsors Eagle: AGH Auxiliary; The InterMed Group Birdie: Deeley Insurance Group; The M&T Charitable Foundation; Park Place Jewelers Service Sponsors Golf Carts & Greens Fees: The Warfield Family Hospitality Cart: BRG; Ryan Homes Southern Delaware Reception: Shenanigans Irish Pub; AGH Medical Staff; Chick-Fil-A West Ocean City; Sysco Eastern Maryland, LLC Snack: The Nellans Family; Thrasher’s French Fries Lunch: Captain’s Galley Crab Cake Shack; Ocean 13 Beverages: Coca-Cola Consolidated; George’s Beverage Company; Harborside Bar and Grill; Hoop Tea Hole-In Sponsors: Haley Architecture LLC; Park Place Jewelers; Snowden Lane Partners; i.g. Burton Automotive Group Contest and Giveaways: Allen & Shariff Corporation; Mitchell and Hastings Financial Services; NFP; Ocean City Elks Lodge #2645
Team Sponsors American Legion - Synepuxent Post #166; Shenanigan's Irish Pub; Phoenix Physical Therapy; Taylor Bank; Atlantic Orthopaedics, P.A.; The Adkins Company; Arc Water Treatment Company of Maryland, Inc.; Bank of Ocean City; Delmarva Power; Home Instead; Hospital Support Services, Inc.; Jolly Rogers;
Nickle Electrical Companies; Niles, Barton & Wilmer, LLP; OC Real Estate Management Inc.; Silberstein Insurance Group, LLC; Tecta America East, LLC; TidalHealth; VOYA Financial; Willow Construction, LLC; Sally Hamel Dowling M.D.; Don Owrey; AdvizeX Technologies; Bunting Construction; Gillis Gilkerson; Mann Properties, Inc.; Merrill Lynch; Ocean Downs Casino; PKS Investment Advisors, LLC; RCM&D/SISCO; Shore Law; The Freedom Center - ABBA Bonds; UKG; Wilmington University; Louis H. Taylor; Joan Stern; Lester Dennis / Pohanka of Salisbury, Inc.; Putter Confusion; Park Place Jewelers; Pohanka of Salisbury, Inc.
Tee Sponsors Phoenix Physical Therapy; Taylor Bank; Atlantic Orthopaedics, P.A.; The Adkins Company; Delmarva Power; Home Instead; Hospital Support Services, Inc.; Nickle Electrical Companies; OC Real Estate Management Inc.; Silberstein Insurance Group, LLC; Tecta America East, LLC; Willow Construction, LLC; Don Owrey; Atlantic Dental Cosmetic & Family Dentistry; Centric Business Systems; Shore United Bank; Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.; HUB International Mid-Atlantic; Kelly Foods Corporation; Bonfire Restaurant, Inc.; Maryland Coast Dispatch; Atlantic Planning & Development; Beachwood, Inc.; Becker Morgan; Delaware Elevator, Inc.; Delmarva Physical Therapy; Endless Golf; Friends of Mary Beth Carozza; Hardwire LLC; ish Boutique; Keller Williams; Long Life Treated Wood, Inc.; Old Dominion Investment Corp.; State Farm Insurance Co.; The Bank of Delmarva; Wilmington University;
Prize Sponsors 45th Street Taphouse Bar and Grill; Aloft; Assateague Crabhouse; Assateague Island Surf Shop; Bayville Package Store; Buona Vita Pizzeria; Comfort Inn Boardwalk; Delmarva Shorebirds; Dolle's; Eagle's Landing Golf Course; Fenwick Float-ors; Fenwick Hardware; Grand Hotel & Spa; Grand Hotel & Spa - Java Beach Café; Green Hill Country Club; Hilton Oceanfront 32nd Street; Island Creamery; Macky’s; Market Street Inn; Mojo's Urban Eatery; Montego Bay Hardware; Ocean City Golf Club; Ocean Downs Casino; Ocean Resorts Golf Club; Old Pro Golf, Inc.; Park Place Jewelers; Paul Williams Inc.; Plak That; Residence Inn by Marriott Ocean City; Ruark Golf Properties; Seacrets; SoDel Concepts; Splash Mountain Water Park; Taustin See SPONSORS Page 62
PHOTO BY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Number 14, Ava Snelsire, moves the ball down the field during last Thursday’s game against Queen Anne’s County.
SDHS does some damage to Queen Anne’s in field hockey By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer (Oct. 27, 2023) Queen Anne’s County High School’s varsity field hockey team had been blasting through teams in the Bayside Conference, where they have been enjoying a seat at the top, undefeated and not scored against. Then came last Thursday night at Lewis H. Taylor stadium in Berlin. No. Stephen Decatur didn’t win. But they did do some damage to Queens Anne’s reputation. Queen Anne’s County had not given up a goal all season long, but that was before they met junior Decatur Seahawk Ava Snelsire. The Seahawks were sloppy in the first three quarters, letting Queen Anne’s score three unanswered goals and never got the ball near the net. Then, as the last seconds of the third quarter were about to tick away, Snelsire emerged from the shadows in full control of the ball. She saw an opening and just
slapped the ball into the net with 0:04 seconds on the clock. Suddenly history was changed forever. No longer did Queen Anne’s own bragging rights to no one scoring against them all season. “I saw fire in my girls in the fourth quarter. They need to start that way and stay dynamic off their feet. They need to believe they are champions,” said Seahawks Head Coach Katie Griffin. For their efforts, the lady Seahawks earned four shots on goal, four saves and three penalty corner kicks. Queen Anne’s players had eight shots, one save and seven penalty corners. “I’m very proud of my girl’s effort tonight,” Griffin said. “They came on fire in the fourth period. If they had played like that in the other three periods, they might have won tonight. But we have to look forward. We have to put this one behind us. The second season starts tomorrow and we have to be ready to go.”
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OCTOBER 27, 2023
Medicore golf league slated DNR accounts two new fish to start lower shore chapter species caught off OC coast (Oct. 27, 2023) Competitive golfers, who may be just OK, will be able to miss putts, shank drives and explore the roughs with their own kind next year with the arrival of a lower shore chapter of the Mediocre Golf Association. Players who win their club championships and those who still aspire to play professionally need not apply, said chapter Co-Leader Mike Conklin, a member of the MGA since 2019 in the Baltimore and Kent Island chapters, in a news release. “We take the game seriously, but we know we’re just not that good,” he said. The MGA hands penalty strokes to those who hold a handicap of less than 18 strokes and marvels over the rare birdie for its players. The Lower Shore chapter will play eight regular-season tournaments in 2024, beginning in March with the Rebel Beach Am-Am, the MGA’s answer to the PGA Tour’s Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Tournaments will be played at courses in southern Delaware and Salisbury and Ocean City areas A full schedule will be announced during the winter months.
“There are good amateur golf leagues in the region, unfortunately, most are located across the bay bridge and for those of us near the beaches, that means a two-hour drive each way,” said Chapter CoLeader Tim Brennan, a two-year member of the Kent Island chapter. “We want to give golfers in this area an affordable way to compete with likeminded players.” While many amateur tours incur significant costs to players, including registration fees and then tournament fees more than $150, MGA registration fees are available for less than $45 for the year. Tournament fees for the lower shore are expected to average between $65 and $80 with the goal of no tournament fee topping $100. Played by USGA rules, the golf is taken seriously - with players hoping to top the yearly money list, just one of the ways players can qualify for the MGA World Championship played annually in Las Vegas. To learn more about the lower shore chapter email lowershoremga@gmail.com, find the chapter on Facebook and Instagram @LowerShoreMGA or visit the MGA website at mgatour.com.
SURF REPORT
(Oct. 27, 2023) The Department of Natural Resources recently reported that two new fish species have been established in the Atlantic Division of the Maryland fishing records program. On Sept. 20, Angler Chris Stafford of Cherry Hill, New Jersey, caught a pompano dolphinfish that weighed 2 pounds, and Ellicott City resident Stephen Humphrey caught a 13-pound great barracuda on Oct. 6. Both fish were caught off the coast of Ocean City. According to the report, Stafford told DNR officials that he was working a school of dolphinfish at Poor Man’s Canyon and “bailing” them on light spinning tackle when he noticed that one of the dolphinfish he caught looked slightly different from the others. Back at the dock, one of the mates who works as a fish cutter at Bahia Marina also noticed that the general body shape and proportions of the fish were different from other dolphinfish. Stafford notified DNR officials, who identified the fish species. The report said the pompano dolphinfish is distinguished from a common dolphinfish based on a few key characteristics, including a broad, squarish tooth patch, a body depth more than 25 percent of its standard length, an anal fin that is not concave and does not have sickle-fin shape, as well as a dorsal fin ray count lower than the dorsal ray counts found on common dolphinfish. The fish had 53 rays, compared to 58 to 66 in common dolphinfish, the report
Eastern Surfing Association hosts Md. competition in OC Sponsors, others By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer (Oct. 27, 2023) The Eastern Surfing Association is very much the strongest advocate for surfing in this area. More specifically as much can be said for the entire east coast of the country. Our local district is the Delmarva (DMV) district. We played host to quite a significant event just a few days ago. The date was Oct. 21, and the significance was the final contest of the 2023 season, also known as the Maryland State Surfing Championships. The ESA is basically a conservation organization but its most visible aspect/characteristic is the competition/contest. So, in the spirit of a few days ago, the Maryland State Surfing Championships were held. To illustrate a difference in this event a different venue was to be had. Usually the same venue is placed time after time, but due to better surf conditions a change of venue was in order, which turned out to be 18th Street in Ocean City. A good swell coupled with offshore
winds, which were quite strong and blustery at times, provided for excellent surf conditions. In a phrase, “a good time was had by all,” would turn out to be most appropriate. Depending on number of participants, some of these events could last all day. It could also have to do with the number of “beaches” that were used in the event/contest. In the case of this recent contest, double beaching was used, which cut the time of the event by onehalf. An increase in the time spent would greatly enhance any aspect of this event. At any rate, the ESA is a long time enhancer of surfing and it’s been that way for quite some time. Started in 1967, there’s been an ongoing continuity and is maintained going forward. As it turns out, it’s the largest amateur surfing organization in the world with districts from the great lakes to the Gulf of Mexico. As individualistic as surfing can be, joining a group such as the ESA is most probably a great idea. And who knows, maybe the next contest participant could be you! — Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City
said. The weight of the pompano dolphinfish was confirmed on a certified scale at Bahia Marina, and it measured at 20 inches in fork length. The barracuda was hooked as Humphrey trolled for yellowfin tuna with a rigged skirted ballyhoo bait at the Washington Canyon. He was fishing on the charter boat Wrecker with mate Cody Smith and Capt. Bobby Layton. A few stray barracuda have been caught off Maryland’s coast in recent years, DNR officials said, but the size of this fish was impressive for these waters. Department fishery managers expect to see more of the species in the future along with other southern visitors, such as cobia, king mackerel, sheepshead, and pompano with climate change and warming ocean water temperatures. The weight of the barracuda was confirmed and certified at the Ocean City Fishing Center, and measured at 40 inches fork length and 42 inches total length. The department maintains state records for sport fish in four divisions – Atlantic, Chesapeake, Nontidal, and Invasive – and awards plaques to anglers who achieve record catches. Anglers who think they have a potential record catch should download and fill out a state record application and call 443-569-1398 or email Erik.Zlokovitz@maryland.gov. Department officials recommend immersing fish in ice water to preserve weight until they can be checked, confirmed and certified.
named, thanked Continued from Page 61 Group; Thrasher's French Fries; West-O Bottle Shop; Windmill Creek Vineyard and Winery; Jellystone Chincoteague; Sea Rocket
The winners: Winning teams: OC Real Estate Management Group, Park Place Jewelers and Wilmington University. Last Place “AGH Anchor” Team: The Intermed Group Golden Ball Challenge: Home Instead; Atlantic Orthopedics Women’s Longest Drive: Penny Olinger (NB); Poppy Granite (SS) Men’s Longest Drive: Chris Hagel (NB); Law Adkins (SS) Women’s Closest to the Pin: Mary Dale Craig (NB) Men’s Closest to the Pin: Billy Allen (NB); Scott Phillips (SS) Floating Green Contest: Penny Parker; Craig Tronti; Jack Marshall; John Grimes Putting Contest: Shawn Hatley, Trevor Ricket and Bill Harrington
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OCTOBER 27, 2023
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Cllosing losing ouut the seeason sttrong. trong Come see uss! Our official last day is Sundayy,, Oct. 29th 2 • Kick the Cooler special, $3 canned beers (while supplies last) • $3 off Sppecialty Drinks • Gift Card giveaways
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