OC Today WWW.OCEANCITYTODAY.COM
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
SERVING NORTHERN WORCESTER COUNTY
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Meals and services are slated for Thanksgiving and beyond at an array of local churches – Page 24
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Monster trucks in October?
Could be in offing, as work proceeds on new attraction
PHOTO COURTESY CONNIE ALDERFER
CHRISTMAS CONVOY
By Hunter Hine Staff Writer (Nov. 17, 2023) A fleet of professional monster trucks could be motoring around Ocean City’s downtown beach next October pending a vote from City Council. The Monsters of Metal Beach Brawl, a competitive monster truck event proposed to take place on the beach just above the pier from Oct. 18-20, received favorable recommendation from the entire Ocean City Tourism Commission at the body’s Monday meeting. Next, the City Council will consider whether to add the brawl to the city’s Fiscal Year See OC Page 6
A horse-drawn carriage pulls a 25-foot Christmas tree down the the streets of downtown Berlin toward the lawn of the Atlantic Hotel where crews erected it on Thursday. It will be officially lit during the town’s Ice Ice Berlin event on Nov. 24, and remain on display through the holiday season.
Parking scofflaws targeted New city department will emphasize enforcement and increasing revenue By Mallory Panuska Managing Editor (Nov. 17, 2023) Drivers who park in paid spaces across Ocean City will soon need to pay closer attention to signs and meters after establishment of a new department focused on enforcement. At a work session Tuesday, City Council members voted 6-1, with Councilman John Gehrig opposed,
to combine all paid parking activities into a single division under the umbrella of the transportation department, and hire a full-time manager and a host of part-time enforcement officers. Council members also unanimously voted to award a bid to parking and tolling provider Duncan Solutions to provide enforcement technology and citation management. The new division was created in response to a recommendation from a consultant who has been researching the city’s parking situation. City
Manager Terry McGean worked with staff members to develop the proposal for the department, which he said addresses a long-standing issue. “To have a revenue source, and frankly a system that’s fairly complex, and not to have a person be in charge of it, I think, is a mistake,” McGean said of the existing parking system, which brings in about $6 million annually in revenue. Public Works Director Hal Adkins echoed McGean’s comments. “You’ve got a $6 million revenue source, call it a ship, out floating in See PARKING Page 7
Monster trucks ride on 66-inch tires that weigh between 800 and 900 pounds.
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NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Today
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NOVEMBER 17, 2023
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Ocean City Today
MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY
An Ocean City bus drives south on Coastal Highway toward downtown.
Future transit electrification mandate concerns city staff By Mallory Panuska Managing Editor (Nov. 17, 2023) Resort officials may need to find a way to speed up electrification of the city’s transportation fleet as a potential state mandate targeting local transit systems’ use of internal combustion engines gains support. Transit Manager Rob Shearman said during a Transportation Committee meeting this week that members of the Maryland Commission on Climate Change have included a recommendation in their annual report
to require all local transit systems to buy only electric vehicles beginning in 2025. Established in 2015, the commission is tasked with advising the governor and General Assembly on ways to prepare for and mitigate the effects of climate change. Shearman said members of the Transit Association of Maryland told him recently about the fleet electrification mandate recommendation, which spurred concerns. “We’re not opposed to electric See TIMELINE Page 8
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Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Police commission denies project’s bike racks Tie vote same as rejection, as four-member body splits on placement, future use By Hunter Hine Staff Writer (Nov. 17, 2023) The Ocean City Police Commission denied a request to allow public bike racks on Upshur Lane that would have helped serve the future residents of new housing units inside the defunct Phillip’s Crab House on 21st Street. At the commission meeting on Monday, City Manager Terry McGean presented the request from Mike Ramadan, a local developer and business owner who is developing 14 multi-family dwellings inside the former restaurant. They are intended to function as what McGean called unofficial employee housing for J-1 student visa workers. Police commissioners Matt James and Frank Knight voted in favor of the request while commissioners Peter Buas and Mayor Rick Meehan voted against it, with that 2-2 tie serving as a rejection of the request. The Ocean City Planning Commission approved Ramadan’s site plan for renovating the building in September, and at that meeting commission members said Ramadan should include bicycle racks, since J-1 workers and other seasonal employees tend to rely on bikes rather than cars. Also at that planning meeting, Ramadan said that he submitted a request for the city to abandon Upshur Lane so he could put the bike racks there. At Monday’s police commission, McGean said that the city can’t grant Ramadan a right-of-way on that street. As a result, Ramadan asked the commission to allow him to remove four parking spaces and a loading zone from the north side of Upshur Lane, which is on the south side of the old Phillip’s building, in order to add the bike racks there, McGean said. McGean said Ramadan would provide and maintain the bike racks. The police commission is also the
HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY
The Ocean City police commission denied a request from local developer Mike Ramadan to add bike racks to the shoulder of Upshur Lane, pictured, to serve future residents of the housing Ramadan is building in the former Phillip’s Crab House restaurant.
traffic and parking commission and has authority to change things such as street-side parking, McGean said after the meeting. Public Works Director Hal Adkins said at the commission meeting that the Public Works Department had no issue with the proposal other than the racks’ placement, which would block his department’s access to the building’s trash compactor. Adkins said he would prefer that the bike racks be portable so they could be moved out of the street in the winter to accommodate snowplows. Ramadan said moving the racks in the off-season could be done. Adkins also said that Upshur Lane has little traffic, a point that Ramadan made to the planning commission and reiterated to police commissioners. McGean said that the bike racks would likely have plenty of room since
a street-side parking area is typically nine feet. Ramadan said he’s trying to keep the bike racks near the building rather than in the building’s designated parking lots, which are across Philadelphia Avenue. Residents could be inclined to jaywalk to that parking lot rather than walking south to the nearest crosswalk, a situation that Ramadan said might cause an accident. “I would certainly suggest that that same concern should apply for the parking that’s been approved across Coastal Highway,” Meehan countered. “It doesn’t speak well for the fact that the parking for the project is across Coastal Highway, which he (Ramadan) has already said is a dangerous situation.” Ramadan said there isn’t another spot on the Phillip’s restaurant property to add the bike racks other than
Upshur Lane, and that he can’t put the racks in the parking lot to the north of 21st Street that’s part of the Phillip’s Shopping Center. Ramadan is leasing the shopping center property and the owners wouldn’t allow him to put bike racks there intended for his employee housing across the street, he said. “The lot across [21st] street where the shopping center is … that was originally going to be his required parking for this project. That was unable to occur because he was not able to get adequate ownership for those spaces (so) that the planning commissioner would approve it as being required parking,” McGean said. “That doesn’t necessarily preclude him putting bike racks there if the parking is not needed for something else.” James observed that Ramadan isn’t required to have bike parking. See MEEHAN Page 6
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
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Ocean City Today
OVER $36.5 MILLION IN SETTLED REAL ESTATE IN 2022 12207 Coastal Hwy. Suite D • Ocean City, MD 21842 • 410-524-1203
NANCY REITHER-SMITH
#1 AGENT COLDWELL BANKER Realty 2022 Sales Volume, Listings & Closed Units Ocean City and DE Beaches
Realtor® • Licensed in MD & DE Office: 410-524-1203 Direct: 410-723-8574 / Cell: 410-603-5050 Email: nreither@cbmove.com
#1 LISTING AGENT FOR COLDWELL BANKER REALTY MID ATLANTIC REGION WATERFRONT DREAM HOME 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 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 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 wraparound 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 HERON HARBOUR ISLE HOME WITH BOAT SLIP 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
304 S. HERON GULL COURT OCEAN CITY • $1,499,900
WATERFRONT WITH BOAT SLIP 2.03 ACRES! PRICE REDUCED $1,674,900 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 lux11602 S. HILLS DRIVE • BERLIN MD ury. The family room over$1,674,900 looks the water with 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
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
OCEAN MID-TOWN CONDO OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY NOON-2PM
SINGLE FAMILY HOME OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 10AM-NOON
OCEAN 2 BR/2BA CONDO OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 1-3PM
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
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
RESIDENTIAL LOT
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 • $499,900
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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NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Today
OC to consider monster truck show in Oct. Continued from Page 1 2025 budget. “The teams and the drivers, they will help significantly to put out (promotions) through their social media and all their fan base, and their fan base is (in) areas that we’re going to be bringing in anywhere from Florida to Michigan, for people who will travel to see these guys drive,” said Frank Miller, special events director for the city. Miller said that the event is expected to draw around 5,000 attendees and that some pre-planning for the event this past August has shown “plenty of interest” in the monster truck community. The event would be a financial partnership with Jaclyn Disharoon Cooper and her father, Rick Disharoon, who owns a monster truck building facility called The Metal Shop in Delmar, Delaware. Disharoon also drives the monster truck “Smokin’,” and has a television show called “Monsters of Metal,” on the streaming service Max, which features Disharoon and his team building a monster truck for the HBO series “The Righteous Gemstones.” Plans so far include an initial exhibition show and pit party with the trucks at the convention center, Miller said. “One of the great things about monster trucks and drivers and their teams is they are very, very fan friendly,” Miller said. From there the trucks could parade south down Coastal Highway on their way to downtown beach. Miller described the main event as a headto-head competition. Miller also suggested that local hotels could host trucks and their teams. Miller said Disharoon started in August contacting drivers about par-
HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY
The Ocean City Tourism Commission gets the details of a proposed monster truck show that would, if approved by the City Council, take place on the downtown beach the weekend before Sunfest.
ticipating and started planning a monster truck track for the beach. “The people that we’re going to be pulling from, most of them actually, are on Monster Jam, which is the televised professional monster truck racing series,” Disharoon Cooper said at the meeting. She also mentioned that they have already confirmed that the team managing the monster truck called the “Kraken,” which has won several awards at Monster Jam, is available and interested. Miller and Disharoon Cooper said the event would feature several levels of trucks along with the higher level trucks. “The type of qualification of drivers that we’re having is just professional level,” Disharoon Cooper said. The Beach Brawl would build upon
Ocean City’s already stacked event roster for October. The October 2024 schedule, if council approves the monster truck rally, would be Oceans Calling for the last weekend of September and the first weekend of October, then the next weekend would be Endless Summer Cruisin’, which is followed by the Beach Brawl and finished off with Sunfest. Setup for Sunfest is lengthy and would be happening in the inlet parking lot while the monster truck event is going on, Miller said. However, the area where Sunfest holds its midway stage, beach stage and picnic tables is extensive, and can serve as a holding area for the monster trucks during the Beach Brawl, he said. Miller said that organizers have also discussed adding a music component to the monster truck event.
11.27.23 OCT
“We’ve got an opportunity to grow a really strong showing of professional people as well as their fans,” Miller said.
Meehan, Buas oppose request Continued from Page 4 Adkins said that he would be willing to have public works paint a box around an area to designate the racks’ zone and change the paint on the curb that marked the loading area. James moved that they approve the request with the conditions that they paint the area, mark it with flex posts and that Ramadan move the racks in the off-season. Buas responded that he would vote against the proposal, but added if it did pass, he wanted the city manager to have full discretion over the racks’ orientation and the power to remove the racks at any time. Meehan said that the approval should be contingent on Ramadan acquiring an occupancy permit, and that if the building use were to change, then Ramadan would have to reapply. Meehan also added conditions that the bike racks can’t block traffic, that if the property ownership changed the new owners would have to come back for approval, and that the area would have to be strictly bike parking and couldn’t be converted to vehicle parking. McGean said had the bike racks been approved, they would have been open to the public and not for the residents only. “Normally, we allow public vehicle parking (but) in this case we’re allowing public bicycle parking,” McGean said.
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Ocean City Today
HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY
A sign welcomes drivers to the West Ocean City Park and Ride off of Route 50.
Parking department created to boost revenue collection Continued from Page 1 the ocean and nobody is steering it,” Adkins said. “Not only do we feel that this will correct that, enhance that — I’m rather excited about the whole future of the thing — but it will also task a full-time parking manager with looking forward … I think there’s a great potential here for control, growth and management. Currently, management and enforcement of paid city parking is handled by five different departments. Tuesday’s vote merges all of the duties, which includes enforcement, accounting, signage, maintenance, and system management for all paid parking, into one division within the transportation department. Transit Manager Rob Shearman will oversee the division and a new manager will be hired to supervise seven to eight part-time employees, or however many it takes to have two people working every shift. The changes are set to incur a onetime cost of $151,784 for equipment and integration and a recurring $621,024 for the positions, vendor fees and vehicle maintenance. However, with savings from changing the current vendors and employees, and new revenue from increased enforcement, the cost is expected to be neutral the first year and provide an average net increase of $120,000 after. McGean also pointed out during the discussion, in response to questions from Councilman John Gehrig, that the figures are about 25 percent less than the estimated impact of the new division.
“It’s actually 75 percent of what we calculated, trying to be conservative,” he said. Gehrig was the only council member to seriously question the proposal. While he said he is in favor of organizing the department and putting management under Shearman, he thinks officials need to take a step back and look at other revenue sources, such as more paid parking. “I’m totally fine with Rob managing it, I’m just not totally fine with hiring nine people right now,” Gehrig said. One of the consultant’s suggestions was to add more paid parking to replace free spaces. At Tuesday’s meeting, another consultant, Ramp Up Advisors principal Duke Hanson, explained the research that was done to determine the amount of lost revenue and potential to gain it back with better enforcement. He called the current level of enforcement “woeful” based on the figures, which showed the paid occupancy rate at 46 percent, compared to 55 percent in comparable jurisdictions. It was also determined that the number of non-inlet lot metered parking tickets dropped significantly, from 2,573 in 2021 to 413 in 2023, when a longtime public safety aide who enforced parking retired two years ago. The new parking division employees are expected to address those types of issues, and could also perform market research to eventually make recommendations for ways to improve the system in the future.
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Ocean City Today
FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
A long line of people wait to board Ocean City buses downtown during the Oceans Calling Festival. Transportation officials said this week that the three-day music event, held Sept. 29 through Oct. 1, contributed significantly to a sizable upswing in city bus ridership for the month of October.
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City bus data shows strong October ’23 ridership By Mallory Panuska Managing Editor (Nov. 17, 2023) With a sizable jump on the last day of the Oceans Calling Festival, the number of bus riders counted during the month of October surpassed last year’s totals by more than 22,400, according to data shared at a city Transportation Committee meeting this week. “This reflects, in my opinion, a successful endeavor by the city to attract more visitors beyond the traditional summer end, so that’s very encouraging,” Transit Manager Rob Shearman said of the figures during Tuesday’s
meeting. While the year-to-date numbers are about even, the data shows nearly 97,000 rides in October this year, compared to 74,468 last year. “An interesting side note, almost all accounted for the very first day of October — the last day of Oceans Calling Festival,” Shearman said. The three-day music event held Sept. 29 through Oct. 1 on the inlet and surrounding beach downtown brought hundreds of thousands of people to the resort who most likely would not have been there during a See INCREASE Page 10
Timeline deemed ‘aggressive’ Continued from Page 3 buses, but we just feel like that aggressive timeline is not going to be able to be met,” Shearman said. He explained that while he believes Ocean City’s bus system will be easier to transition from diesel to electric because of how close the routes operate to the home base, many steps will need taken to support the change. “I just don’t think we’ll have charging infrastructure in place that quickly,” Shearman said. In order to receive federal money for the electrification, city staff must come up with a transition plan. Public Works Director Hal Adkins said the plan is needed for the city to be eligible for federal dollars for the project. A cost study will also need to be completed. Shearman said it can be implemented early next year, followed by conversations with Delmarva Power to determine the electric load needed and other logistical details. “Hopefully, this time next year we’ll have a dollar amount on infrastructure costs and what the loads
would look like,” he said. Then there are the bus procurement costs, which Shearman said will be easier to calculate but still take time to put together. “We are still probably two or three years out,” he said of full transition. Mayor Rick Meehan, who chairs the Transportation Committee, said he thinks staff members are on the right track and need to work toward the electrification goal as quickly as they can. According to a zero emission vehicle assessment the Maryland Department of Transportation performed for the local system, the cost of converting the local fleet would be somewhere around $99.6 million, with annual operating expenses expected to be $1.9 million. The capital costs would include the vehicles and infrastructure expenses, with the infrastructure expected to cost $25.7 million and vehicles coming in at an estimated $73.9 million. Shearman has said the estimates may not be exactly correct, though, as the potential costs could be spread out over a longer period of time.
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Ocean City Today
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NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Tram ridership down 90K below 2019 totals Committee requests data to determine why 2023 figures have not caught up By Mallory Panuska Managing Editor (Nov. 17, 2023) The 2023 season’s packed Boardwalk trams proved to be a perplexing site for members of the city’s Transportation Committee after data showed this week that ridership was more than 90,000 below precovid totals. “It’s hard for me to imagine when I see the trams packed all the time,” Mayor Rick Meehan, who chairs the committee, said in response to the final ridership data report at a meeting Tuesday. According to the report, Transit Manager Rob Shearman said the number of people who rode the trams this season was actually up 3 percent from last year. Staff members have said department officials nipped a potential staffing problem in the bud early with incentives for drivers and conductors and proceeded to have an overall successful run before packing the trams up for good after Sunfest weekend. The comparison to 2019 numbers was a different story, though, as the data showed the final tally for 2023
HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Crowds of people walk along the Boardwalk downtown behind a tram during Sunfest weekend.
coming in at 91,621 fewer. The discrepancy struck a chord with Meehan and several other committee members, who questioned the existence of differences in factors
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such as number of trams and deployment times between the two seasons. Shearman and Transportation Operations Manager George Peake said that while they did not have all of the data from 2019, the number of vehicles was the same. Peake added, however, that the trams started running two hours earlier in 2019. After covid, officials decided to start deploying the trams at noon instead of 10 a.m. because of demand. Meehan pointed out that those two hours would likely not have accounted for the nearly 100,000 passenger deficit this year. As a potential remedy, Meehan and Councilman Tony DeLuca, who also serves on the committee, asked for the 2019 data and for staff to focus on efforts to pinpoint where the latest numbers are falling short. “Ninety thousand is so huge,” DeLuca said. “Rick makes great point, where is it, is it day, night? There’s a 90,000 difference. Ninety thousand times $5 [a rider] is 468
[thousand]. It’s almost a half a million bucks.” Shearman said he will pull the data and bring it to the committee members for review. He also reported tram revenue numbers during Tuesday’s meeting, which were more positive. Shearman said the money the trams brought in this year was 26 percent more than the totals from last year, and even a small percentage above the 2019 figures. He attributed the upswing to a $1 increase in the fares implemented at the beginning of the season, coupled with more drivers and conductors, which brought up deployments. Overall, Meehan said department staff are making positive efforts to increase revenue, he just wants to know what is hindering the ridership. “Do whatever you can do to try and increase that number,” he said. “Because I think we’re going in the right direction with deployment and everything else we’ve done. But I think we need to get the riders.”
Increase due to Oceans Calling Continued from Page 8 typical shoulder season weekend. The ridership numbers even surpassed the totals from 2019 for the month. That year, they were a little more than 65,000. Despite the increase in riders, deployments were actually down slightly from last October, but still more than the totals from 2019 through 2021. Bus revenues are going up as well. In August, data showed the income levels were set to come in about 13
percent short of projections for Fiscal Year 2024. In September, the numbers jumped to just 7.5 percent below, while October’s totals dropped even more to 6 percent. “A strong October helped us catch up to projections,” Shearman said. He added that staff also expect to use some lingering American Rescue Plan Act funds to bring the deficit down even more, to about 3 percent under budget, with an upcoming amendment.
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Today
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NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Today
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By Mallory Panuska Managing Editor (Nov. 17, 2023) Since the 1970s, residents and tourists have been rounding up friends and family to gather around bonfires on Ocean City beaches. And while not everyone is a fan, namely a longtime beachside vacationer who publicly complained during a City Council work session about the nuisance of bonfire smoke, the program has been a hit. “We’ve had overwhelming positive feedback,” Fire Marshal Josh Bunting said during the Tuesday meeting of the response to the 2023 program on social media, in-person to the inspectors, and direct from people who obtained permits. For $75, groups can obtain permits and light up firewood on the sand, as long as they follow a set of rules such as staying away from the dunes, beach boxes and lifeguard stands, using untreated wood for kindling, and cleaning up by midnight. Bunting said the permit price has not changed much since the program began, and brought in nearly $167,000 this year, which was the lowest it has been since 2020, but still high compared to pre-covid numbers. The revenue from the permits is
mostly used to help offset costs within the fire department. “It is a money maker,” Bunting said. The funds have helped buy a bomb robot, supported the reconditioning of a bomb trailer and assisted with department overhead costs. The program is busy, though, and Bunting said officials will be requesting money in the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for a new compact SUV and part-time hours to help woith coverage. The extra help is needed after the number of bonfires shot up significantly in 2021. It was the first bounce back summer after the pandemic, when people were still forced to gather outdoors but starting to travel and vacation more. A total 3,557 bonfire permits were issued that year, up from 2,584 in 2020 and just 698 in 2019. Last year, 3,416 permits were issued, with 3,245 granted this year. Of the total, Bunting said 194 bonfires were cited for not having permits this year, with 144 voluntarily extinguished and 50 permits obtained.
He added that the amount of negative feedback received about bonfires this year was also down from years past, with the complaints ranging from concerns about smoke when air quality alerts were issued, to embers from the fires darkening the sand. Bunting said some commenters also made suggestions, such as limiting bonfires to two days a week, only allowing them from Sept. 1 through April 30, cutting them off at 10 p.m. instead of midnight, and spreading them out more. Bunting shared the suggestions but said they come with negative aspects as well, which he said council members would have to weigh. Last year, council members approved, and then backtracked, a request to raise the bonfire permit cost to $85. They ultimately voted to leave the amount as is, but Councilman John Gehrig called the price “the best deal on the beach” on Tuesday and pointed out that bumping the amount up to $100 would not be much per person for a 10-person group gathering for a fire.
PHOTO COURTESY TOWN OF OCEAN CITY
A bonfire burns on an Ocean City beach in a properly dug hole.
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
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Ocean City Today
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Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City bond rating upgraded from Aa2 to Aa1 Paving projects, such as this one on Coastal Highway near 56th Street over the winter, are typically included in city bond issues. FILE PHOTO/ OCEAN CITY TODAY
(Nov. 17, 2023) Ocean City will be in a better position when they go to the bond market next year after receiving a “significant” rating upgrade. According to a news release, credit rating agency Moody’s Investors Service has bumped the resort’s bond rating up from Aa2 to Aa1. Company officials cited the upgrade to factors such as “the city’s robust economic development, sound financial management practices, and a diverse and growing revenue base,” in the release. “We are pleased with Moody’s acknowledgment of our financial strength,” City Manager Terry McGean said in the release. “This upgraded bond rating is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our local government and community. We remain committed to responsible financial management and ensuring Ocean City continues to thrive.” Bond ratings reflect municipalities financial health and ability to pay back debt on bonds. Both Aa1 and Aa2 ratings are typically associated with low-risk, low-yield investments.
WC Gov. offices post schedules for Thanksgiving (Nov. 17, 2023) Worcester County Government offices, including the recreation center and all five branch libraries, will be closed Thursday and Friday, Nov. 23 and 24, for Thanksgiving Day and American Indian Heritage Day. The libraries will also be closed Saturday, Nov. 25. The Central Landfill in Newark and the Berlin and Pocomoke and Snow Hill Homeowner Convenience centers will be closed Nov. 23. Standard hours of operation at the facilities will resume Nov. 24. The relation center will be open during normal business hours Nov. 25-26. The libraries and all other government offices will resume standard business hours on Monday, Nov. 27.
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Ocean City Today
WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONER BRIEFS By Hunter Hine Staff Writer (Nov. 17, 2023) The Worcester County Commissioners voted on several items related to county infrastructure at their meeting last Tuesday.
Riddle Farm wastewater purchase agreement The commissioners made no motion to approve two wastewater purchase agreements between three companies, WGC EDU LLC, Coastal Square LLC and West Ocean City LLC, and the Riddle Farm wastewater treatment plant. The absence of a motion precluded a vote, so the request was denied. Director of Environmental Programs Bob Mitchell told the commissioners that WGC is a company the county joined with in a public-private partnership for the last expansion of the Riddle Farm wastewater treatment plant. The purchase agreements were called for in the Revised and Final Glen Riddle Spray Irrigation Agreement from 2016, which mandates that the purchase agreements are finalized before equivalent dwelling units of water and sewer capacity (EDUs) are bought. “The commissioners are a party to the agreement and we would need your concurrence to this acceptance,” Mitchell said. According to the request, Coastal Square owners want to buy all the remaining wastewater capacity from the
Riddle Farm plant so it can build a shopping center and residential housing. They have to build the commercial part first, Mitchell said. Coastal Square owners believe there are 162 remaining EDUs attached to the Riddle Farm wastewater service area. The request says that both Coastal Square and West Ocean City LLC owners were offering to pay a 35 percent deposit had the purchase agreement been approved. West Ocean City LLC wanted to buy 12 EDUs. The owners originally paid a deposit on the EDUs but the deposit was returned since the purchase didn’t happen, Mitchell said.
Mystic Harbor solids handling grant and loan The commissioners voted unanimously to allow the county Department of public Works to file paperwork for a grant and loan from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) that would fund the Mystic Harbour wastewater treatment plant’s solids handling project. According to a memo, the department of the environment has offered $2,206,265 in grants and a loan of $2,206,265 for the project’s design and construction. The money came from the MDE’s 2023 Water Quality State Revolving Fund, and the project would upgrade Mystic Harbour treatment plant’s biosolids treatment facilities. “Mystic Harbour has never had
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solids handling equipment built into the plant, which basically allows us to pull the treated biosolids out of the waste stream. It’s something that needs to be done,” said Public Works Director Dallas Baker. The project involves rehabbing a 50-year-old building at the plant that is used to store equipment such as emergency generators and pumps, but faces flooding and structural problems, according to the request. The request says that the .9 percent interest on the over $2 million loan over a 30-year term would result in an estimated $14 price increase for each EDU per quarter for customers in the Mystic Harbour Service Area. The commissioners interrupted Baker as he began discussing the estimated price increase on customers as they forwarded and approved the motion. “Dallas, your silvery tongue saved the day again. Say less and get more,” said Commissioner President Chip Bertino said.
West Ocean City speed limit reduction The commissioners approved a request from the department of public works to reduce speed limits on a slew of roads surrounding Ocean City Elementary School. “Public Works has received numerous concerns regarding speed limits on residential roadways that are narrow, with no sidewalks and little to no
shoulders for pedestrians/bicyclists,” according to the request. With the approval, the roads that will have speed limits set at 25 mph include all the streets in the Oyster Harbor neighborhood, all streets in the Thoroughfare Farms neighborhood, Fleetway Drive, Charles Street, Pine Street, Horn Island Drive and all streets North of the intersection of Center Drive and Golf Course Road. Keyser Point Road, Center Drive and Golf Course Road were all set to 30 mph, according to the request. Speed limit signs will be added and replaced to reflect the changes.
South Point bulkhead construction bid The commissioners approved a bid from Cianelli Construction Inc. to undertake the South Point bulkhead replacement project. The approval went through on a 61 vote, with commissioner Joe Mitrecic voting against it. Cianelli bid the two-phased project at $340,500; $178,000 for phase one and $162,500 for phase two. The state Department of Natural Resources approved the bid and approved a $500,000 grant for the project from the state’s Waterway Improvement Fund. The next lowest bidder was Blue Fin Construction, which offered to do the job for $444,800. Bay Coastal Contracting bid the highest at $544,714.
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Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY
The Worcester County Commissioners voted to amend tipping fees for refuse at county landfills and add a new fee for illegally dumped paint and petroleum-product cans. Pictured are the commissioners at their Nov. 7 meeting.
Commissioners approve new landfill fees 6-1 By Hunter Hine Staff Writer (Nov. 17. 2023) Starting Jan. 1, Worcester County landfills will increase the tipping fee for dumped refuse from $70 per ton to $80, and add a $20 removal charge for each paint or petroleum-product can. At the commissioners meeting last Tuesday, members voted 6-1 to approve a request from the public works department to amend the new fees into the Worcester County Solid
Waste Enterprise Fund’s Fiscal Year 2024 operating budget. Commissioner Joe Mitrecic voted against the change because of the can-dumping fee. Director of Public Works Dallas Baker said at the meeting that local hauling companies asked for the change in the refuse tipping fee because it would streamline the process. “Right now, when people come up (and) dump their waste, we charge
different rates for refuse, for construction demolition, for some various other things,” Baker said. “The $80 will make it consistent with pretty much 90 percent of the material that’s dumped.” As the system is now, after a truck dumps a load that is half refuse and half construction demolition, landfill workers must verify the cost based on the different rates associated with different dumped materials, Baker said. Haulers then have to return to the
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landfill to pay. “The haulers are interested in trying to get in and out of the landfill as quick as possible,” Baker said. Baker said that the $20 fee for paint and petroleum-product cans comes in response to an increased number of the cans getting dumped at county landfills, while the cans are not allowed to be disposed there. The fee is an attempt to discourage illegal dumping and also helps pay for the extra labor that landfill workers contribute when they’re forced to remove the cans, Baker said. Baker said public works would have a proper place to unload the cans without charging the $20 fee. Mitrecic said that while he agrees with the tipping fee increase, he thinks that the fee would instead motivate contractors to dump cans in municipal trash receptacles instead. “No disrespect to those guys up there on the hill because they do a great job, but I don’t really see them jumping out and picking up paint cans as opposed to picking up tires,” Mitrecic said. Tires are not allowed to be dumped in landfills and must be removed as well. Mitrecic said he would not support the motion because he thinks the paint can problem could be solved another way. Baker said hauling companies have told him that they try to tell contractors not to put illegal material in dumpsters, but some contractors hide the items under landfill-allowed refuse anyway. “We’ve been having commercial haulers bringing in 20 and 40 yard bins half filled with paint cans and dumping them large scale,” Baker said. The Maryland Department of the Environment could fine the landfill if it found that these kinds of cans were being dumped there, he said. Baker said that if haulers tell landfill personnel they have paint cans, See UPDATED Page 18
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Ocean City Today
PHOTO COURTESY LEE WILKINSON
CRACK OF DAWN
Pictured is the surf on the shore of an Ocean City beach as the sun rises and peaks through the clouds. As temperatures cool down fewer visitors are out waiting to glimpse the iconic east-coast sunrise. Replacing the fair-weather beachgoers are surfers dawning wetsuits and surf fisherman who are out for the early-morning bite.
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Updated waste fees begin Jan. 1 Continued from Page 16 the workers will direct them to another area to drop off the cans, and in that case the haulers would not be charged a fee. “I understand what you’re up against but I also understand that if you ever put a 40-yard dumpster out in front of a job site, you could end up with grills, lawn chairs, paint cans and whatever else anybody in the neighborhood happens to have that they want to get rid of,” Mitrecic said. Mitrecic said that educating haulers and contractors would be a better option. Baker said that public works could send educational letters to haulers, as well as post information on the county website and social media. However, Baker said that recently public works warned a company to stop dumping illegal items, and the company dumped more the next day. “I’d much rather take that approach. The message just isn’t getting through,” Baker said. Baker said that since the changes goes into effect Jan. 1, contractors and haulers have a two-month buffer to learn about the incoming fee changes, and dumpsters that are currently on construction sites likely wouldn’t be affected.
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Commissioners again write against wind farm Army Corps of Engineers accept public comments regarding US Wind project By Hunter Hine Staff Writer (Nov. 17, 2023) The Worcester County Commissioners are sending another letter in protest of offshore wind turbines to the Army Corps of Engineers since the Corps opened its own public comment period ahead of making a decision to permit the project. At the commissioners meeting on Nov. 7, Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young said that the Corps is soliciting comments on US Wind’s proposed three-phase offshore wind turbine project, which the company plans to construct off the Maryland and Delaware coast. The corps will use public comments to determine whether to permit for the project, and the deadline for the comment period is Dec. 5. “The decision whether to issue a
permit will be based on an evaluation of the probable impacts, including cumulative impacts of the proposed activity on the public interest,” according to a joint notice about the comment period from the Baltimore and Philadelphia Districts of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. “Any comments received will be considered by the Corps of Engineers to determine whether to issue, modify, condition, or deny a permit for this proposal,” according to the notice. Commissioner Joe Mitrecic said that a wind energy company that has proposed several wind farm projects off the mid-Atlantic coast, has canceled one of its wind farm projects. Ørsted will cancel its Wind I and Ocean Wind II projects, which were proposed for construction off the southern coast of New Jersey. According to Ørsted’s press release and an article from the Coastal Point, a Delaware Newspaper, the wind energy company is still developing its Skipjack I and Skipjack II projects off
the coast of Maryland and Delaware, but did say the Skipjack project is being reconfigured. The company said it canceled its New Jersey projects because of rapidly rising costs resulting from inflation and high interest rates and the difficulty in obtaining materials. “The cost of these projects has increased so dramatically that, in order [build them], these companies are going back to get more money from the government, which means the taxpayers are going to put the bill up for them,” Mitrecic said at the commission meeting. Mitrecic said that now increased government spending is a concern on top of concerns for Ocean City’s fishing industry and other ocean-related activities. Commissioner Ted Elder said the wind farms would be a detriment to the state environmentally, financially and aesthetically, as the wind turbines will be visible from the shore of Ocean City and Assateague Island. “In the long run I think this is going to end up costing the people in the county and the state of Maryland a tremendous amount of money,” Mitrecic said. Commissioner Caryn Abbott said many people have contacted her under the assumption that county commissioners are in support of the offshore wind project, which is incorrect. “I think I can speak for all of us. We are not in support of these wind farms,” Abbott said. “We’ve made it very clear for a very
long time that we’re opposed to them,” commissioner President Chip Bertino said. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, or BOEM, 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 across the region. According to the notice from the Corps, the Baltimore District is helping prepare BOEM’s environmental impact statement, though BOEM is the lead federal agency for the proposed US Wind project. US Wind requires approvals from multiple federal and state agencies because the project falls in overlapping jurisdictions, said Cynthia Mitchell, a public affairs specialist with the Corps. “Each agency will review impacts related specifically to their regulations,” Mitchell said in an email. The Corps is reviewing potential impacts associated specifically with Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act, which is within the Clean Water Act. “The individual permit (from the Corps) would govern activities in navigable waters of the U.S. for both structures and wetlands, as well as water quality considerations,” said Laurie Jodziewicz, senior director of Environmental Affairs for US Wind, in an email. BOEM’s public comment period for the draft environmental impact statement on the Maryland Offshore Wind Project is open until Nov. 20.
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NOVEMBER 17, 2023
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Ocean City Today
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
BEACH LESSONS
Ocean City Elementary School fourth graders pose for a photo on the beach with Ocean City Beach Patrol Lt. Ward Kovacs. Physical education teachers Tracey Drocella and Mark Engle take students in grades second through fourth to the Boardwalk each year for a 5-mile fitness walk and lesson on beach and water safety.
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Welcome to your dream beachfront retreat. This stunning 2-BR, 2-BA condo unit offers the perfect blend of luxury and coastal living. Open floor plan that integrates the kitchen, dining, & living room areas. Newer kitchen is a chef's delight. Modern upgrades, stylish tile backsplash, newer stainless-steel appliances, solid surface countertops, kitchen island & spacious pantry. Primary bedroom offers a breathtaking view & direct access to a private balcony. The condo's ideal location offers a front-row seat to the Ocean City Air Show and many of the event’s OC has to offer. Other recent updates include new A/C unit installed in 2023, new water heater in 2021, new railings, newer front window, and slider, as well as a brand-new storm door. Whether you're looking for a permanent residence, a vacation getaway, or an investment property, this oceanfront condo checks all the boxes. $699,900
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Located in West OC, this 3 BR, 2.5 Bath townhome has it all! Great location close to shopping, dining, beaches & amusements! Enjoy amazing views of the large central Pond from your upper balcony & lower deck. Walk to the clubhouse with indoor & outdoor pool, tennis, playground & fitness center. Granite breakfast bar, OWNER/BROKER, GRI & CRS upgraded appliances, gas fireplace, marble tile Licensed in MD, DE flooring, crown molding & assigned parking. Attached 443-235-5982 Cell Debbie@HilemanRealEstate.com storage shed. New Price $399,900
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Lynette Bridges-Catha
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Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
OCVFC VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Long served 32 years career, 17 volunteer By Steve Price Contributing Writer (Nov. 17, 2023) This week we recognize Past Assistant Chief and current Life Member of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company, Keith Long. Keith was hired as a paramedic/firefighter by the Town of Ocean City in 1978, serving as a lieutenant in the career fire department before retiring in 2010 after 32 years of service. Following his retirement from the fire service, Keith worked for nine years as a substitute teacher in the Worcester County Public Schools. After joining the fire service as a career paramedic/firefighter, Long joined the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company in 1980 to explore other
opportunities in the fire service and to continue to serve his community. During his 17 years of active service in the OCVFC, Keith served as an Instructor training young members of the company’s cadet program. He held positions as lieutenant and captain on numerous pieces of fire apparatus over the years and served as assistant chief for the OCVFC for two years (1988 and 1989). Long recalls the tragic Sauté Café fire on July 16, 1983, his involvement in the rescue efforts and experiencing the loss of fellow firefighter, Jeff Dieter as the most significant event of his firefighting career. Assistant Chief Long cites his greatest accomplishment in the fire service as his ability to serve his com-
munity as both a career and a volunteer firefighter. He is also proud of achieving the position of assistant fire chief for the OCVFC and a career paramedic/firefighter. Long wants to tell everyone – “It has been a challenging career and a very rewarding volunteer experience.” Long has some advice to young men and women with an interest in joining the fire service: “I have two favorite words – respect and responsibility. Being a cadet in a volunteer fire company or a young member in any fire service is a great opportunity to support your community and serve as a role model for others. It can really open up options for your future.” We thank Assistant Chief Long for his years of service both as a volunteer firefighter and a career paramedic/firefighter dedicated to protecting the lives and property of
Keith Long
our residents and visitors to our community. For membership information or to learn more about your volunteer fire company, visit ocvfc.com.
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Today
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Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Local Thanksgiving feasts, services planned Array of Ocean City and county churches offering places to eat and gather By Taylor Sloan Contributing Writer (Nov. 17, 2023) Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on everything that makes one grateful. A lot of community members are without assistance or loved ones nearby, therefore several coastal churches are offering free meals and worship services next week. Ocean City In Ocean City, St. Mary Star of The Sea/Holy Savior Parrish’s community service will be held at 6 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 19, at St. George Greek Orthodox Church at 8805 Coastal Hwy. The Church of The Holy Spirit at 10001 Coastal Hwy. will have a Thanksgiving service at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 22. The Ocean City Baptist Church at 102 North Division St. will host its annual Thanksgiving Dinner starting at 11 a.m., Thanksgiving Day. The Ocean City Baptist Church has been doing the dinner for 43 years. “We normally serve close to 700 people between carry-out, deliveries and people that eat in,” Church Member Melanie Corbin said. She added that she has been in charge of the meal for four years but helping out with it for 15. “I just like being with all the people,” Corbin said. “I like being able to be family for people who don’t have it.” Anyone who wants to volunteer to prepare, set-up, serve, or clean can sign up online at ocbaptist.churchcenter.com. “If people sign up online that’s easier to volunteer,” Corbin said. “We have volunteers on Tuesday. Then
there are three different slots for volunteering on Thanksgiving Day.” For more inquiries, call 410-2894054. St. Luke Catholic Church at 9903 Coastal Hwy. in Ocean City is holding a special Thanksgiving mass at 9 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 23. Berlin The Berlin First Baptist Church at 613 Williams St. in Berlin will provide traditional Thanksgiving meals next week. All meals must be reserved and can be picked up or eaten at the church from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 23. A limited number of deliveries will be made available. “Roughly 400 meals were provided last year,” Parish Member Sharon Parsons said. The Berlin First Baptist Church also gives meals to the Berlin Nursing Home, as well as to local first responders, state troopers and emergency personnel. “We’ve been doing the dinner for 30 years,” Parsons said. The church’s Thanksgiving service is solely volunteer based. Anyone who would like to volunteer should list themselves ahead of time by calling Parsons at 410-641-4306. Those who want to reserve a meal should call Parsons as well. When reserving a meal, provide your name, phone number and the number of meals. Ocean Pines The All-Faith Friendship Association will be at the Community Church of Ocean Pines for a Thanksgiving service at 7 p.m, Sunday, Nov. 19, at 11227 Racetrack Road. The association is inviting the community to come together for an all-faith celebration with songs of joy, peace, and neighborly love. One of
PHOTO COURTESY PASTOR SEAN DAVIS
Volunteers and attendees pose for a photo during a past Thanksgiving dinner at Ocean City Baptist Church. This year’s event is set for 11 a.m., Thanksgiving Day, at the church on North Division Street.
the local religious organizations that will be in attendance is Temple Bat Yam. A special collection will be taken for Worcester Goes Purple and Beyond Your Walls mobile shower unit. According to its website, Worcester Goes Purple, also known as The Worcester County Warriors Against Opiate Addiction began in 2016 when sons were taken by the opiate epidemic way too soon, many who were graduates of Stephen Decatur High School. The warriors bring treatment
(Nov. 17, 2023) The Maryland Department of Natural Resources Police is conducting its annual Boatload of Toys drive at several locations in the coming weeks, including one in
REQUESTED Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan FY 2025 through FY 2029 Worcester County, Maryland The Worcester County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing on the REQUESTED Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for fiscal year FY2025 through FY2029. The CIP is a planning document the County will use in preparing future operating budgets, to anticipate future financial needs of the County and to identify possible funding resources. Inclusion of a project in the CIP does not constitute a guarantee of funding from the County. Some capital projects will be added, deleted and/or amended as necessary. As with the Operating Budget, the projects for each fund have to be balanced with the resources available in that fund. Copies of the Worcester County REQUESTED Capital Improvement Plan for FY2025 through FY2029 summary may be obtained online at www.co.worcester.md.us. For additional information, please contact the County Administration Office at (410) 632-1194.
Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. in the County Commissioners Meeting Room Room 1101 - Government Center One West Market Street Snow Hill, Maryland 21863
Pocomoke City First Baptist Church in Pocomoke City at 204 Fourth St. will host a Thanksgiving Service at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 22, and a pie social from 6-8 p.m. For more information, call 410957-1555.
DNR Police hosting Toys for Tots drive Dec. 2 in Berlin
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The public hearing will be held on:
to those in need and awareness to the community for the opiate crisis. For more information on the organization’s mission, visit worcestergoespurple.net.
Berlin. Locally, the drive, which is part of the national United States Marine Corps Toys for Tots initiative, will be set up for collection of new, unopened toys for children in need from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Dec. 2, at the Berlin Walmart on Ocean Gateway. According to a news release, members of the police volunteer reserve officer program and staff will collect the toys at drop-off locations in each region of the state — southern, eastern, central, and western. New additions to the program this year include an increase in donation drop off points and a partnership with Amazon, which is offering Marylanders the opportunity to donate toys online through a Toys for Tots Registry hosted on Amazon’s platform. Donations can be added to an Amazon cart, choosing the “NRP Safety Education Unit” gift registry address listed.
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Today
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Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Comic Con returns Dec. 9 to conv. center (Nov. 17, 2023) Ocean City Comic Con will return on Dec. 9 with new guests, fresh content and more space. According to a news release, this year’s event is set from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Ocean City convention center on 40th Street. Admission is $12, with kids 9 and under admitted free with paying adults. The release said an array of guests from across the entertainment spectrum will be featured, including Selwyn Ward of “Power Rangers” fame; Master Daniel and Carlos Pesina, who played Johnny Cage and Raiden in the original “Mortal Kombat” games; canine actor Sayuri, who played Brandy in “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood;” Mike Ancas of George A. Romero's “Day of the Dead;” and wrestlers Goldy and Brett Waters, who star in Apple+'s “Monster Factory.” The release said featured comic creator guests include artist Greg LaRocque (“The Flash,” “Web of Spider-Man,” “Stargate Atlantis”); artist Trish Forstner (“Stray Dogs,” “My Little Pony”); artist Ron Wilson (“The Thing,” “What if…?,” “Masters of the Universe”); inker Mark McKenna (“Star Wars,” “Deadpool,” “The Punisher,” “Doom Patrol,” “Combat Jacks”); artist Brett Breeding (“West Coast Avengers,” “Death of Superman,” “Spider-Man”); inker Keith Williams (“She-Hulk,” “The Phantom,” “The Mask”); and a host of professional artists, storytellers and creatives. This year the con will be featuring a fleet of replica pop culture vehicles for photo opportunities, such as K.I.T.T., the A-Team van, the Mr. Universe van from Steven Universe, a DeLorean, the Batmobile, and more. Along with meeting guests, the release said attendees will have access to anime screenings throughout the day, informative and entertaining
FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Crowds of people view displays at last year’s Ocean City Comic Con. This year’s event is set for Dec. 9.
panels, video game tournaments, a cosplay contest complete with prizes, and more than 300 booths packed with geeky goods, independent content creators, comics, toys, collectibles, trading cards and more. Cosplay has become a major part of the convention experience, and the con will be a hub for costuming fun, according to the release. A cosplay contest with prizes will be held, and those who show up in costume will receive $1 off admission. Professional cosplayers Ally Blaze Cosplay, Dynamite Webber Cosplay, Lady J Cosplay, Sharon Rose Cosplay, Ghostiee Muffinn Cosplay, as well as the 501st Legion, the Saber Guild, The Rebel Legion (“Star Wars” costuming clubs), Charm City Ghostbusters, and others will be in attendance to take pictures with attendees and discus the art of costuming. Attendees who bring a non-perishable food item for Diakonia Inc. will receive $1 off the admission price. A portion of admissions will also be donated directly to the Hero Initiate, and the Make Delmarva Foundation (Delmarva Makerspace). Tickets can be bought at the door or at linktr.ee/OceanCityComicCon in advance. For more details and the latest news on Ocean City Comic Con visit oceancitycomiccon.com online, or find the event on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
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NOVEMBER 17, 2023
HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, you may see the details of a situation a little differently this week. While you may have been sticking to one way of doing things for some time, a new way may mean a breakthrough.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, your passion for a long-forgotten project is renewed. Dust off what you started, and see it through to completion. The results may surprise you.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Are you ready to communicate, Gemini? It’s time to have an important conversation with someone close to you. It may not always be comfortable, but it needs to be done.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, a message will come to you that will shed light on something that you have been missing for some time. In fact, it is so simple you won’t know why you missed it before.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, you may need some financial fixes this week. Take control of your spending and identify ways you can curtail it further going forward. Ask for help, if necessary.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Lately your good advice and common sense offerings have largely gone unheard or unheeded, Virgo. This week someone starts giving you the attention you deserve.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, if brain fog has set in the last few days, you may get a reprieve this week. Rather than floundering around, you’ll have a direction to go and be focused on your goals.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 You may have been too close to the action to realize an important piece of the puzzle, Scorpio. After having an opportunity to step back for a bit, the picture becomes much clearer.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, career gears could be spinning right now. You have a lot of questions to ponder, including whether you should stay put at work or maybe look elsewhere.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Actions speak louder than words, Capricorn. Others will take note of your efforts and embrace any chance to work alongside you.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 It is time to stop waffling on a particular situation, Aquarius. You have done the research and checked it over many times. Make a decision knowing you are prepared.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 You may need a crash course in negotiation, Pisces. There is something you have your eye on, and you may have to haggle over the details so things go your way.
Ocean City Today
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Catch a Ride campaign wins award (Nov. 17, 2023) The Ocean City Department of Tourism & Business Development recently received the Best Media and Public Relations Campaign award for its 2023 Catch a Ride program at the Maryland Tourism and Travel Summit. The program was designed to assist travelers in selecting the ideal vacation destination, coinciding with the launch of the department's new brand platform, “Somewhere to Smile About.” The Catch a Ride campaign kicked off on National Road Trip Day on May 26 and ended Memorial Day weekend. It featured a customized 1970s VW beach van promoting the resort and Ocean City’s brand on a mobile tour to Washington D.C., Philadelphia and Baltimore. According to a news release, the department’s team executed a hardworking public relations strategy that included a program launch and media preview in Ocean City, global news release, event and lifestyle media pitches, and alerts inviting local media to visit the tour. The efforts resulted in 176 million media impressions, seven unique placements and an earned media value of $1.6 million. Notable placements included features in MSN, Thrillist, and a live broadcast feature with local Baltimore station, WMDT. "We are honored to receive this prestigious award for our 'Catch a Ride' program,” Tom Perlozzo, Ocean City’s director of tourism, said in the release. “This achievement is a testament to the dedication and creativity of our team, along with our partners at BVK, in promoting Ocean City as a mustvisit destination. We believe in creating experiences that resonate with travelers, and 'Catch a Ride' perfectly embodies the spirit of our new brand platform, 'Somewhere to Smile
FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
A customized 1970s VW van sits parked inside a tent near the inlet at Ocean City’s official brand reveal event on the first day of Springfest in May. The campaign recently received the Best Media and Public Relations Campaign award at the Maryland Tourism and Travel Summit.
About.'" The public relations strategy complemented a media plan that encompassed social media, mobile billboards, and radio and influencer marketing and earned Ocean City over 275 million impressions. The release said all efforts supported traffic to the mobile tour, encouraging nearly 5,000 MidAtlantic residents to enter for a chance to win prizes, including the grand prize, a weekend trip to Ocean City with the VW van concierge. Beyond quantitative metrics, the release said the campaign garnered qualitative success and gratitude from event attendees, residents and local businesses. The positive response has
sparked anticipation for the next phase of the campaign. "The success of 'Catch a Ride' has been overwhelming, and we are excited to bring 'Catch a Ride' back for 2024,” Perlozzo said. “This initiative has become a symbol of Ocean City's welcoming spirit, and we can't wait to continue spreading smiles and creating memorable experiences for our visitors for the summer and beyond." To learn more about future pop-up events and programs, follow OCMD on social media. For information on hotels, attractions and itineraries, or to begin planning an Ocean City vacation, visit OCOcean.com.
PAGE 28
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Today
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Fritters replace traditional Thanksgiving oyster stuffing By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Nov. 17, 2023) It is official, Thanksgiving is almost here! Menu planning is in full swing, ovens are rocking, and the atmosphere in the kitchen is hopping to the tune of “Let’s Turkey Trot.” The Eastern Shore is known for its oysters, and oyster stuffing is a given. However, there are those who do not partake of these delectable morsels. Therefore, many Thanksgiving tables offer traditional stuffing along with oyster stuffing. There is nothing wrong with conventionalism but an experienced host knows ingenuity is the foundation of “u’m, u’m good!” On that note, consider oyster fritters as an alternative to oyster stuffing. But we are not talking about ordinary oyster fritters where one searches for the oyster bits amongst the bland bread stuffing. Those who reside at the Chesapeake Bay will only settle for superlative oyster fritters. A crunchy exterior that is filled with an aromatic stuffing and juicy, succulent oysters that will dazzle even the most discerning oyster fritter connoisseur. Before we continue, a little history seasons the dough of curiosity. Fritter foods can be traced back all the way to the Romans, who introduced the recipe to Europeans as their influence and power spread. In medieval times, fritters were
considered dangerous to consume and indigestible, but people could not resist the tasty treat. Apple fritter recipes started to appear in the U.K. and eventually made their way to America by way of the colonists. So, what is the secret to a fantastic oyster fritter? Surprisingly, there are several factors. The oyster itself must be fresh and plump. As a result, I highly suggest purchasing oysters from Kerry of Sea Born Seafood in West Ocean City (443-235-3448). Locals know he is the man when it comes to seafood. The batter is also crucial. Pancake batter has a hint of sweetness which compliments the salty oyster. In addition, pancake batter is more forgiving than flour. If flour is over mixed, it has a tendency to become tough. The batter needs some type of liquid. Reserve the oyster broth, it has a natural oyster flavor that can’t be replicated. But this will not be enough, so the addition of milk or evaporated milk does the trick. Evaporated milk will yield a slightly richer batter. Sauteed onions, peppers, and celery add flavor and texture to the batter. The red, yellow, and orange color of the peppers also blends in with the theme of fall. Variance distinguishes one chef from another. The temperature of the oil is crucial for successful fried fritters. You want the fritters to cook fast, so the outside obtains the coveted crunch and the oyster itself remains soft. If the oil is too hot, obviously the fritters will burn. If the oil is not hot
enough, the fritters will absorb the oil and become soggy. In addition, do not overcrowd the pan with oysters. Otherwise, the temperature of the oil will drop which will again yield a soggy exterior. Once the oyster fritters are done, do not place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This is the biggest no, no. You have worked so hard to develop a crispy exterior, the last thing you want to do is to have them sitting on soggy paper towels. Instead, place them on a cooling rack so they can achieve the last stage of crispiness. While the oysters are resting on the cooling rack, add a dusting of salt and pepper. The hot batter acts as a glue and the seasonings will adhere better. In closing, oyster fritters are delicious and an innovative dish for your Thanksgiving feast. What’s more, this seaside delicacy can be served year-round. Originality equates distinction and is the secret ingredient for memorable occasions. Enjoy!
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OYSTER FRITTERS
Ingredients 1-pound shucked oysters, reserve the oyster liquid ¼ cup finely chopped yellow onion ¼ cup finely chopped celery ¼ cup combined yellow, orange, and red bell pepper, finely chopped 1 cup dry pancake mix 3 tablespoons cornmeal ½ teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon Old Bay ½ teaspoon black pepper approximately ½ cup whole milk or evaporated milk 2 tablespoons canola oil, plus extra for frying garnish with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 1. In a large cast iron skillet, heat 2 tablespoons canola oil over medium-low heat. Saute onions, celery, and peppers until translucent, about 4 minutes. Remove veggies from pan and set aside. Using paper towels, wipe the inside of the skillet to remove any bits of veggies. 2. Place oysters in a mesh strainer over a bowl. Set aside. 3. Heat 2-inches of canola oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. 4. In a large bowl, combine pancake flour, cornmeal, salt, Old Bay, pepper, and reserved oyster liquid. Add milk or evaporated milk. The amount of dairy depends on the amount of the oyster liquid. The batter should be thick. Add veggies and oysters, and again mix well. 5. Using a tablespoon, spoon batter with an oyster and carefully drop it in the hot oil. Once the outer edges become golden brown, turn the fritters to brown the other side. Place cooked fritter on a cooling rack and add a dusting of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Repeat this process for the remaining fritters. 6. Serve immediately with favorite side of dipping sauce. Secret Ingredient – Originality “Where’s the glory in repeating what others have done.” —Rick Riordan
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
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Ocean City Today
OC starts spring countdown with renowned ‘ambassador’ Lawrence Leaf Facebook famous for seasonal humor (Nov. 17, 2023) Starting on Black Friday, Coins Pub and Restaurant will begin a countdown to spring in collaboration with Lawrence Leaf, who is known as the ambassador to spring. To kick off the designation, a news release said the bar will begin offering a new drink on Nov. 24 called Peachy Honey Bee’s Knees, created by Coins owner Marc Custodio and Leaf. The drink reportedly includes an edible flower to keep customers’ minds off of winter. The countdown will lead up to Ocean City’s spring celebration on March 19, which the release said will become an annual tradition for locals and tourists. Leaf was born in a family with the surname Leaf that owned a plant Nursery in Gardenville on the outskirts of Baltimore, with a nursery on Branch Avenue. For many years, the release said Leaf had a great true love for his family’s industry and won and judged awards in the gardening field. The release said Leaf was recently recruited by a former CNN corre-
spondent, Jill Brooke, as a horticulture journalist with Flower Power Daily. To continue to educate and provide a bit of humor, he created a public Facebook page, Lawrence Leaf - Ambassador To Spring, which has membership of nearly 17,000 world wide. The countdown to spring began after Leaf moved from Baltimore to Ocean City in 2015. The release said he noticed a decline in people from the tourism industry. To bring attention to gardening as a year-round activity, Leaf started a countdown to spring with comical memes and writings on Facebook, which the release said received a strong response from the locals of Ocean City. People started to greet him and ask how long it was before spring. In the winter of 2017, Leaf proclaimed himself the ambassador to spring and started to mix humor with winter gardening facts to tell members of the public that gardens are sleeping and not dead. The release said Leaf wants people to learn and enjoy all four seasons in a garden and teach his father’s motto - Plant Today For A Better Tomorrow.
NOW PLAYING
STEALING SAVANAH
Seacrets: Saturday, Nov. 18, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m. CAPTAIN’S TABLE 15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, Located in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City, 410-289-7192 / Captainstableoc.com Every Friday & Saturday: Phil Perdue, 5-9 p.m. COINS 28th Street and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100 / www.coinspuboc.com Nov. 17: Giddy Up Sing-A-Long, 4-6:30 p.m.; No More Whiskey, 7:30 p.m. SEACRETS 49th Street and the Bay, Ocean City 410-524-4900 / www.seacrets.com
Nov. 17: Opposite Directions, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Tuff, 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.; The Way Outs, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Nov. 18: Starlight Anthem; 5-9 p.m.; DJ Bobby-O, 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.; DJ Connair, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Stealing Savanah, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m. Nov. 19: Football Sunday, noon to 8 p.m.
WHISKER’S BAR & GRILL In the Ocean City Square Shopping Center, 11805 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City
410-524-2609 /www.whiskersbar.com Nov. 17: Dance with Beats by followers, 8 p.m. Nov. 20: Industrial Night: 8 p.m. Nov. 21: Ladies Night; Karaoke w/DJ Wood
Play
FREE Golf
INDOOR 136th ST.
4 LOCATIONS:
23 St. 28th St. 68th St. 136th St.
Christmas Day 11am-4pm at our 68th INDOOR Golf Course
Please Call 410-524-2645 For Information
rd
Come On Down And Play A Round
Happy Holidays
Happy Holidays From Our Family To Yours!
Making Memories
(Indoor 68th St Location)
INDOOR 68th ST. For more fun photos and to blog: www.oldprogolf.com
CHRISTMAS STOCKING STUFFERS 20 Game Tickets
Ocean City Today
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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 $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast: closed Monday through Wednesday; Thursday through Saturday, 7:30-11 a.m.; Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to noon. Open daily for Dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m. ■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT 28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-2893100, www.coinspuboc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 2-5:30 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. Closed Monday. Open Tuesday 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 410-2892612, coralreefrestaurant.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m. ■ PAPI’S TACO JOINT 15th Street and Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City 443-6646811, Papistacojoint.com $$ | 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.
MIDTOWN
29th to 90th streets
■ 32 PALM 32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410-289-2525, 32palm.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year! Don’t miss out on Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m. ■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT 3301 Atlantic Ave. in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com $$ | 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, 7:3011:30 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 410524-4900, www.seacrets.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday through Saturday, 10 a.m. through midnight with island atmosphere. Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood.
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
UPTOWN 91st to 146th streets ■ BAHAMA’S CRAB SHACK CARRYOUT & OUTLET Oceanside MD/DE Line and Coastal Hwy, Fenwick 302-5375882 Premier seafood, chicken, homemade soups, super crab cakes, steamed shrimp, fresh clams, soft crabs, scallops, oysters and snow crab claws. Fat crabs by weight, sandwiches and dinners. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Open Wednesday through Sunday. ■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS 118th Street, Ocean City 800641-0011, www.carouselhotel.com Enjoy one of the restaurants at the Carousel. Fine Ocean Front dining with a beautiful view. The Reef 118 is open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday through Sunday serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and 4-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday serving dinner. The Bamboo Lounge is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Sunday and 4-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday. ■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT Located on the 8th floor of the Fenwick Inn, 13801 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 410-3907905, vistarooftopoc.com $$$ | Full bar Enjoy a beautiful ocean and bay view from the same restaurant. Check out the menu on the website serving dinner, lite fare, Boozy Brunch every Saturday and Sunday, Happy Hour 3-6 p.m. Offseason daily specials available. Open Monday through Thursday, 3–11 p.m.; Friday, 3 p.m. to midnight; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to midnight. ■ 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.
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Today
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NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Today
Calendar
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
Veteran Voices: Tuskegee The Germantown School is launching a lecture series and exhibit honoring veterans this weekend with a discussion about the Tuskegee Airmen. The group is made up of African American military pilots and airmen who fought in of World War II. Clara Small, professor emeritus of Salisbury University, will discuss the group’s history from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Nov. 18, at the Germantown School in Berlin. The discussion is the first in the school’s lecture series and free to attend, however donations are recommended. For more information or to register, email: germantownschool@gmail.co m or call 410-641-0638. The Germantown School is at 10223 Trappe Road in Berlin Berlin, MD. The Germantown School Veteran Exhibit and School Museum is open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Jolly Roger Black Friday Jolly Roger Amusement Parks is offering half-off all park passes and select merchandise on Black Friday. The annual sale is set from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Nov. 24, at the SpeedWorld Building on 30th Street. Attendees can buy passes for the park’s pier and the 30th Street location, which includes SpeedWorld, Splash Mountain, the amusement park and mini golf. Big ticket, two-hour armbands, unlimited daytime and nighttime armbands, and more are al on sale for 50 percent off. The Black Friday event will feature music and live local coverage from Froggy 99.9 and Ocean 98, as well as free hot chocolate, fire pits and free cookies and pastries. Jolly Roger Amusement Parks is also giving away free 2024 calendars to the first 300 guests who spend $200 at this year’s event. For more information, visit jollyrogerpark.com/black-friday/.
Art league fellowships The Art League of Ocean City is will continue accepting applications for three women’s fund fellowships that include $1,500 stipends and exhibit in the Thaler Gallery at the Ocean City Center for the Arts until 4 p.m., Nov. 20. Applicants must be female artists, at least 18 years old, and residents of Worcester, Wicomico or Somerset counties.
Submit calendar items to: editor@oceancitytoday.net. Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.
Fri., Nov. 17 ST. MARY STAR OF THE SEA CHRISTMAS BAZAAR
LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Cutline information will go here. Cutline information will go here. Cutline information will go here. Cutline information will go here.
According to a news release, the fellowship is designed to support the artistic endeavors of women through recognition, credentials and financial support. The program is made possible by the Women’s Fund at the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore. More information is available at OCart.org or 410-524-9433.
Trimper Rides carnival Trimper Rides will be open for two weekends this fall and winter — Nov. 25 and 26 and Dec. 2 and 3 — for the company’s annual Christmas carnival fundraiser. According to a news release, the carnival will run from noon to 5 p.m. each day and feature live holiday music, vendors, and visits with Santa Claus. Proceeds from the event will go to the Ocean City Development Corporation. Black Friday deals will be available in-person at Marty’s Playland Arcade and Trimper Rides. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.,Trimper Rides Guest Services shoppers can buy 2024 summer season and mega passes. Summer passes will be $100 off and mega passes are 25 percent off during the sale. The sale will stop online at the conclusion of Cyber Monday, but visitors of the Christmas carnival will still be able to take advantage of the deals. Also this year, Marty’s Playland Arcade will throw a Christmas carnival pre-sale event from 5-7 p.m. on Black Friday. The arcade will sell ride passes that will allow attendees to ride as soon as the doors open on Nov 25, and offer other deals on games.
Local News • Enter tainment • Spor ts Classifieds • Obituaries • Business Legals • CalendFILL ar • Lifestyle • Opinion www ww.oceancity itytoday. t d y.com
1705 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. 2 Day Christmas Bazaar. First Floor includes Crafts and Gently Used Items, Second Floor includes Food Court, Raffle Auction with over 50 full basket, Silent Auction, Plant Store & Sweet Table. 410-289-0652
zola, amarzola@atlanticgeneral.org
KIWANIS ‘SHOP WITH A COP’ SPECIAL PANCAKE BREAKFAST Ocean Pines Community Center, Assateague Room, 235 Ocean Parkway, 811 a.m. Tickets cost $9 for adults and free to those 9 years and younger. Carryout also available. Proceeds benefit the Shop With a Cop annual event. There will be a collection box for donating basic needs.
MAHJONG CLUB
TINKER TIME: STEM KITS
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.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
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Drop in to use the library’s supplies and your imagination to explore STEM concepts with the self-guided kits. 410632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
SATURDAY WRITERS BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘TOMORROW, AND TOMORROW, AND TOMORROW’ BY GABRIELLE ZEVIN Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Copies of the book are available at the library circulation desk. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10 a.m. Novice and established writers gather to share their writing projects. Structure includes critiques and appreciation, market leads and writing exercises. Drop ins welcome. 410-641-0650
CRAFTY SATURDAY: CAREER CRAFTS
Sat., Nov. 18 ST. MARY STAR OF THE SEA CHRISTMAS BAZAAR 1705 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. 2 Day Christmas Bazaar. First Floor includes Crafts and Gently Used Items, Second Floor includes Food Court, Raffle Auction with over 50 full basket, Silent Auction, Plant Store & Sweet Table. 410-289-0652
ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET Whaleysville United Methodist, 11716 Sheppards Crossing Road, Whaleyville. 7-10 a.m. Buffet will include 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.
ANNUAL HOLIDAY CRAFT & GIFT SALE Refuge Clubhouse, 37533 Leisure Drive, Selbyville, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Come support the North OC Relay for Life team and help wipe out cancer. Donations: 215828-5521 or 240-271-6125.
WALK WITH A DOC South Gate Park, Ocean Pines, 9 a.m. This month’s speaker is Dr. M. Sean Hooker who will discuss joint health and joint replacement surgery. Alyce Mar-
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Stop by the library to make some crafts perfect for each aspiring doctor, artist, teacher and everything in between. Be ready for a mess. All ages welcome. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
VETERAN VOICES: TUSKEGEE AIRMEN OF THE EASTERN SHORE Germantown School Community Heritage Center, 10223 Trappe Road, Berlin, 10 a.m.-noon. Dr. Clara Small will discuss the history of the Tuskegee Airmen. The lecture is free, but reservations are recommended: germantownschool@gmail.com or 410641-0638.
READING AROUND THE WORLD Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Travel the globe through books and crafts as the group learns about different countries and cultures. For ages 6-10 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
VISIT WITH THE ACCOHANNOCK INDIAN TRIBE Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 11 a.m. Join the Accohannock Indian Tribe as they share
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NOVEMBER 17, 2023
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Ocean City Today
CALENDAR Continued from Page 32
7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100
about their native ways, heritage, customs and traditions under the direction of the Chief and Senior Clan Mother. For all ages. 410-957-0878
Tues., Nov. 21
ORIGINALS ONLY LIVE MUSIC
STORY TIME: THANKSGIVING TURKEY TALES
Art League of Ocean City, 502 94th St., 6-8 p.m. Featuring original acts by upand-coming musicians. Admission: $5 suggested donation. No drinking, no drugs and no covers. www.artleagueofoceancity.org, 410-524-9433, megan@artleagueofoceancity.org
GALA BY THE SEA
Ashore Resort & Beach Club, 10100 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 7-11 p.m. Gourmet hors d’oeuvres, cocktail bars, dessert, live entertainment, raffles, silent auction and more. Cost is $100 per person. Tickets: 410-723-2842. believeintomorrow.org/galabythesea
FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
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.
Sun., Nov. 19
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and crafts to celebrate Thanksgiving. For ages 2-5 years. 410957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
Mon., Nov. 20
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and finger plays. For ages 2-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
OC KNITTING GROUP
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BLOCK PARTY
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Babies, toddlers and preschoolers come play with blocks and other toys while socializing with other families. 410-6323495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
FAIRY LANTERNS
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m. Create decorative and lighted mason jars. Limit 12. Registration required: 410-524-1818. www.worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME: ‘TURKEYS’
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join us for stories and songs all about turkeys. Ages 2-5 years. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
CORN-Y SUNCATCHERS
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Get ready for Thanksgiving with this corn-y craft. For ages 6-10 years. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
GREAT BOOKS DISCUSSION
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. Today the group will examine “Criterion of a Good Form of Government” by John Stuart Mill. The group is reading from Book 5 of the Great Conversations Anthology. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
AMERICAN LEGION POST 166 AUXILIARY MONTHLY MEETING
T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169
BEACH HEROES-OC
Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 5-6:30 p.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and living a healthy lifestyle. Rose Campion, 410641-0157
OC KNITTING CLUB
Tuesdays - Worcester County Library Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.
ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE
Tuesdays - Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome, 7-9:30 p.m. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.
STORY TIME: BEING THANKFUL
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Sundays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 10 a.m. www.jw.org
289-4725
American Legion Synepuxent Post 166, 2308 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City. Social hour begins at 6 p.m. followed by the general meeting at 7 p.m. Volunteers are needed for the Puttin for a Cause fundraiser. LCAP5980@gmail.com.
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.
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. 22 BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP
Takes place via Zoom the third and fourth Wednesday of each month. For surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatric Center, 410-641-9568
SENSORY STAY AND PLAY
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Get ready to squish, build, splash, shake and scoop through several fun stations. For ages 2-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-2427062.
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 2 p.m. Come play some Nintendo Switch games on the big screen and hang out with other kids and tweens. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS
Mondays - Worcester County Library Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road,
WINTERFEST OF LIGHTS
Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, Nov. 16-Dec. 31, 5:30-9:30 p.m. Admission cost is $6 for adults and free to children 11 years and younger. Take the walking tour through thousands of sparkling holiday lights and many animated light displays located along a paved park paths. Sip hot chocolate, take a photo with Santa, try a family craft, visit the gift shop and see the 50foot Christmas tree. There will be a Winterfest Express tram ride with multiple “trolly” stops to assist guests in making their way around the 58 acre Northside Park. Pets are welcome on Wednesday evenings. Purchase tickets: https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/special-events/winterfest/.
HOLIDAY TRAIN GARDEN DISPLAY
Ocean City convention center, 4001 Coastal Highway, Wednesdays through Sundays, Nov. 16-Dec. 31, 5:30-9 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are accepted to benefit Ocean City Beach Patrol. https://www.ococean.com/events/annual-events-festivals/winterfest-holidays/
Ocean City library, 10003 Coastal Highway, Nov. 15-Jan. 5. Free event. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed Sundays and holidays. www.worcesterlibrary.org, oceancity@worcesterlibrary.org, 410524-1818
GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP
Atlantic General Hospital, Conference Room 1, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3-4:30 p.m. The goal of the support group is to provide participants with hope for the future. Gail Mansell, 410641-9725, gmansell@atlanticgeneral.org
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
OCEAN CITY CHAPTER OF THE SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF ITALY
Meets every month (except July and August) at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 9901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Membership is open to individuals of Italian descent and their spouses. www.sonsofitalyoceancity.com
POLISH AMERICAN CLUB OF DELMARVA
Meets the second Wednesday of each month (except July and August) at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 9901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 2-4 p.m. A social organization of men and women of Polish or Slavic descent.
ZUMBA WEDNESDAYS
Wednesdays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st St., 10 a.m. Dance background not required. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org
Thurs., Nov. 23
TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY
43RD ANNUAL FREE THANKSGIVING DINNER
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-
ONGOING EVENTS
OC LIBRARY WINTER TRAIN GARDEN
SCHOOL’S OUT SWITCH SESSION
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS
rolls and butter. RSVP and delivery requests: 410-289-4054 or OCBaptist.com.
Ocean City Baptist Church, 102 N. Division St., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Menu includes turkey, stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, string beans, corn, cranberry sauce, different pies,
Crossword answers from page 26
34
November 17, 2023
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
VEHICLES
SUSSEX CO. HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OPPORTUNITIES Marketing Manager; Events Coordinator; Healthy Homes Specialist; Acquisition Coordinator; Volunteer Manager. For information and application: SussexCountyHabitat.org
Hiring Licensed MD cosmotologist Full-time or part-time. 410-390-3916
2BR/2 Bath Bayfront Condo at 56th St., 3rd floor walkup, 2 level condo. Fully furnished, full kitchen, W/D, 2-car parking, central AC. No pets, no smoking, occupancy 4. $2200 monthly, tenant pays cable and electric. 1st and last months’ rent plus security deposit to move in. Resort Rentals, 410-524-0295.
Seeking Roommate Bayview Estates, Selbyville. 5.7 miles to beach. Includes utilities & Internet. Shared kitchen, W/D, living room, outdoor space, POOL. VERY CLEAN. $850/month. 302-386-7818
Industrial Warehouse. Space: 1500 sq. ft. Masonry construction, 18’ high ceiling, large garage door, bathroom. Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200.
WE BUY CARS Running or not. 302-732-3529
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. ELECTRICIAN Full-time, year-round position. Established company. 5+ years exp. Service-type projects. Health, dental, paid vacation, 401K w/ matching. Company van. Hawkins Electric Call 443-856-2001 Ask for John Ross
Hiring Cooks, Audio/Video Techs, Maintenance Staff, Painters, Carpenter, Plumber, Housekeeper, Liquor Store Attendant, Boat Mates, Receivers, Event Space Housekeeper Apply in person or online at seacrets.com
Year-Round Experienced Outboard Motor Mechanic Needed for basic out board service and winterizing outboards. Excellent starting salary. Call Harbor Marine W.O.C., 410-213-1383. 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.
NOW HIRING!! Production Crew for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $20/hr. Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com
Outlets Ocean City Full-Time, Customer Service Representative Provide exceptional customer service to shoppers, tenants, vendors and visitors to our outlet shopping destination. This person will handle customer inquiries and successfully meet marketing and operational goals to ensure a positive experience. Candidates must be able to work a flexible schedule including some nights, weekends and holidays. Responsibilities include but not limited to: - Assist customers/retailers/vendors with questions, route incoming phone calls appropriately - Answer incoming phone calls, accurately maintain data bases, complete reports/logs, order supplies - Provide vendor waivers, assist with check-ins - Inform shoppers of promotions/special events, distribute coupon books - Participate in special events/projects - Able to navigate computers, complete documents in a variety of programs - Report all accidents/incidents according to policy in absence of GM Qualifications - Ability to accurately use math skills, type documents, maintain databases, demonstrate attention to detail, utilize a computer effectively, assist with customer situations, multi-task, etc. Avison Young/Outlets Ocean City is committed to employing the best talent with the most fair and equitable recruitment practices. Additional information and apply at: https://us-avisonyoung.icims.com/jobs/3743/ customer-service-representative/job
House to Rent. YR. N.O.C. 4 Master BR, 1 Single BR. Plenty of parking, large kitchen, back porch, washer and dryer. $3200/month. 443-880-2486
Winter Rental - Ocean City. XL Master bedroom w/private bath. Fully furnished. $600/ month. Includes all utilities. No pets. No smoking. 443880-2486
COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL
WOC - YR Rental - 5BR, 3.5BA, 3600 sq.ft. on pond. $2950/month and one months security plus utilities. Contact Lou, 410-713-0065.
Commercial Warehouses 600 and 800 sq. ft. spaces West Ocean City and Bishopville, MD Yearly Leases Only
Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.
Call 646-812-1212
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
OFF SEASON RENTALS
ROOMMATES ROOMMATES 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. Year-Round Room For Rent Ocean Pines $800/month and $200 security. Fully furnished. All utilities included. 443880-2317
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.
Classifieds 410-723-6397
BUDGET MOVERS 443-664-5797 LOCAL & EAST COAST MOVING Full Packing Service Piano Movers - Full Service www.facebook.com/OCBudgetMovers
Sea Nymph with Galvanized Trailer. 25 Horsepower Mercury Engine. Includes Trotline and Crab Traps. $2500. Contact Neal at 410-382-6743.
AUCTIONS The contents of mini storage units will be sold online at Lockerfox.com. Ocean City Mini Storage. Units to be auctioned: B28S13-S35-S102-S189O136-O164-O175. Units are being sold due to nonpayment of rent. Common items in units are household items, furniture, tools, fishing equipment, paintings, antiques and vintage items. Date: Friday, November 24th, 2023 Time: 10:00 am This will be an online auction. Please go to Lockerfox.com and register. Feel free to call 410-2132029 for any questions regarding the online auction.
CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK Serving the Newspapers of Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia since 1908.
We Welcome Pets 7700 Coastal Hwy 410-524-7700 www.holidayoc.com
DONATIONS DONATIONS
SERVICES
Utililites Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com 410-289-8581
Yearly & Seasonal Rentals
1 Office/Retail Space available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200
BOATS/PWC BOATS/PWC
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
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
PAGE 35
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”
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BERLIN • OCEAN PINES • OCEAN CITY
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• 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
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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
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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
PAGE 36
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
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
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
PAGE 37
Ocean City Today / Public Notices
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of CHARLES OWEN ROUSE Estate No. 19942 Notice is given that THOMAS J. ROUSE whose address is 629 WOOD GLENN COURT, TIMONIUM, MD 21093 was on OCTOBER 25, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CHARLES OWEN ROUSE who died on OCTOBER 15, 2023 with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 25th day of 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-11/2/3t _________________________________ Ralph J. DiPietro, Esq. Hofmeister Robinson & DiPietro 11350 McCormick Road, EP II. Suite 601 Hunt Valley, MD 21031 410-832-8822 RALPH J. DIPIETRO, ET AL Substitute Trustees Plaintiffs v. ESTATE OF THOMAS ETTZ c/o Catherine Ettz, Personal Representative Defendant IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY Case No. C-23-CV-23-000087
NOTICE
Notice is hereby given this 25th day of October, 2023 by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of the property mentioned in these proceedings and described as 103 123rd Street, Unit 381, Ocean City, MD 21842 n/r/t/a 101 123rd Street, Unit 381, Ocean City, MD 21842 will be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before
PUBLIC NOTICE The motor vehicles described below have been abandoned. The owners and lien holders are hereby informed of their right to reclaim the vehicles upon payment of all charges and costs resulting from the towing, preservation, and storage of the vehicles. The failure of the owners or lien holders to reclaim the vehicles within three weeks of notification shall be deemed a waiver by the owners or lien holders of all rights, title and interest and thereby consent to the sale of the vehicles at public auction or to have it otherwise disposed of in a manner provided by law. These three weeks of notification begins on DATE:11/17/2023 Line No 777-23 891-23 919-23 922-23 923-23 928-23 934-23 935-23 944-23
Year 2007 2010 1996 2002 2010 2012 1988 2007 2006
Make ACURA MAZDA TOYT NISSAN HYUNDAI VW FORD SATURN CHEVY
Model MDX 3 CAMRY ALTIMA ACCENT JETTA MUSTANG ION SILVERADO
Color BLU GRY GRN GLD BLU SILV RED SILVER BLK
Style 4D 4D 4D 4D 2D 4D CONV 4D 4D
VIN Mileage 2HNYD28347H536242 N/A JM1BL1S69A1328763 N/A 4T1BF12K8TU862399 N/A 1N4BL11D82C145950 N/A KMHCM3AC4AU166930 N/A 3VW567AJ1CM471612 N/A 1FABP45E4JF219161 N/A 1G8AK55F67Z172767 N/A 2GCEK19B161130246 N/A
All vehicles will be sold at auction on-line at www.govdeals.com. For details call 410-723-6643. AUTH: Ross Buzzuro Chief of Police OCD-11/16/3t ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ the 27th day of November, 2023, next, provided a copy of this NOTICE be published at least once a week in each of three successive weeks in some newspaper of general circulation published in said County before the 20th day of November, 2023, next. The report states the amount of sale to be $171,000.00 to Global Tradings, LLC. Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court for Worcester County True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-11/2/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of KEITH ALONZO WINSLOW Estate No. 19949 Notice is given that KEITH C. WINSLOW whose address is 2370 WORCESTER HIGHWAY, POCOMOKE CITY, MD 21851 was on OCTOBER 27, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of KEITH ALONZO WINSLOW who died on OCTOBER 17, 2023 without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 27th 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-11/2/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110, Zoning, of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission in the Council Chambers of City Hall
located at 301 Baltimore Avenue in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2023 At 7:00 pm Pursuant to the provisions of Article II, Section 5, Conditional Uses, a request has been filed under the provisions of Section 110-544, Uses permitted by Conditional Use in the SC-1, Shopping Center Commercial District to permit an 18-hole miniature golf course. The site of the proposed use is described as part of 6.890 acres of beach land, Map 0117, Parcel 5151A of the Fenwick Plat; further described as located on the west side of Coastal Highway between 128th Street and 130th Street; and locally known as the Montego Bay Shopping Center, 12901 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: JAY TAUSTIN (FILE #23-12100004) No oral or written testimony will be accepted after the close of the public hearing. Public hearings that are not completed at one meeting may be continued without additional advertised notice provided the Commission Chairperson announces that the hearing will be continued and gives persons in attendance an opportunity to sign up for written notice of the additional hearing dates. For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Department of Planning and Community Development, Room 242, City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842. Phone 410-289-8855. PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION JOSEPH B. WILSON CHAIRPERSON
PAGE 38 MAUREEN HOWARTH, ESQ. ATTORNEY OCD 11/9/3t _________________________________
PROPOSAL SOLICITATION
Construction Manager at Risk Services Pocomoke Library Worcester County is seeking proposals from qualified Vendors to contract for Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) services for the proposed construction of a new library to be located in Pocomoke City, Maryland 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 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 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
Ocean City Today / Public Notices noon on Monday, November 20, 2023. Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than 2:30pm on Wednesday, November 29, 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 "Proposal Solicitation – Construction Manager at Risk Services Pocomoke Library" in the lower left- hand corner. Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted. Minority vendors are encouraged to compete for the award of the solicitation. Nicholas W. Rice, CPPO, CPPB, NIGP-CPP Procurement Officer Worcester County, Maryland OCD-11/9/2t _________________________________ WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON JOSEPH E. MOORE ESQ 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 19958 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Circuit Court of Fairfax County, VA appointed Ellen B. Monaghan, 8400 Camden Street, Alexandria, VA 22308 as the Executor of the Estate
of Michael F.X. Monaghan who died on June 28, 2023 domiciled in Virgina, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Joseph E. Moore whose address is 3509 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred. Ellen B. Monaghan Foreign Personal Representative Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest Date of first publication:
NOVEMBER 17, 2023 November 9, 2023 OCD-11/9/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 19960 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the FIRST JUDICIAL CIRCUIT court of OKALOOSA COUNTY, FL appointed WILLIAM C KIRK whose address is 200 DIAMOND COVE DESTIN FL 32541 as the PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE of the Estate of CAROLYN MARIE KIRK AKA: who died on MARCH 3, 2023 domiciled in FLORIDA, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is DWIGHT E THOMEY whose address is 153 EAST MAIN STREET ELKTON MD 21921. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: WORCESTER COUNTY. All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for WORCESTER COUNTYwith a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred. TERRI WESTCOTT, Register of Wills for Worcester County ONE W MARKET STREET ROOM 102 - COURT HOUSE SNOW HILL, MD 21863-1074 OCD 11/9/3t _________________________________ John C. Seipp Esq 105 Camden Street Salisbury, Md 21801-4916
NOTICE
LEGAL ADVERTISING 410-723-6397 legals@oceancitytoday.net
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of JOANNE D. MASON Estate No. 19963 Notice is given that: RALPH L. MASON III 9740 BAYS END LANE BERLIN, MD 21811 was on November 3, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joanne D. Mason who died on September 1, 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 3rd day of MAY 2024.
NOVEMBER 17, 2023 Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent's death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Terri Westcott One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, Md 21863-1074 Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest Date of first publication: November 9, 2023 OCD 11/9/3t _________________________________ Law Offices Codd & Codd Thomas C. Codd, Esq. 670 Ritchie Highway Severna Park, Md 21146
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS To all persons interested in the estate of WILLIAM JOSEPH NICKERSON Estate No.19961. NOTICE IS GIVEN that: LAWRENCE O. NICKERSON, 202 SPRING MAIDEN COURT NO. 303, GLEN BURNIE, MD 21060 was on November 6, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William Joseph Nickerson, who died on September 29, 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 May 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 One W Market Street
PAGE 39
Ocean City Today / Public Notices Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, Md 21863-1074 Name Of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest Date Of First Publication: November 9, 2023 OCD 11/9/3t _________________________________ IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND IN THE ESTATE OF: FREDERICK EDGAR WILLIAMS ESTATE NO. 19967
NOTICE
OF JUDICIAL PROBATE To all Persons Interested in the above estate: You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Thomas J. Kokolis, Esq., 110 North Washington Street, Suite 500, Rockville, Maryland 20850 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 01/16/2024 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: 11/16/2023 OCD-11/16/2t _________________________________ CHRISTOPHER T. WOODLEY ESQ. WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON 3509 COASTAL HIGHWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of ROSETTA C. GRIMM Estate No. 19974 Notice is given that MELISSA WOLOSHYN whose address is 3 HORSE SHOE LANE, NORTH SALEM, NY 10560 was on NOVEMBER 09, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ROSETTA C. GRIMM who died on JUNE 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 9th day of MAY, 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-11/16/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS SNOW HILL, MARYLAND Pursuant to Chapter 200 of the Code of the Town of Snow Hill, Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing will be held before the Board of Zoning Appeals at the Train Station, 200 Belt Street, Snow Hill, MD on Wednesday November 29, 2023, 5:00 PM For the following cases: Case# 2023-01- Royal Plus LLC 214 Martin Street…, Tax Map 200 Parcel 741 Zoning District R-2 Medium Density Residential, Snow Hill, MD has requested a 10' 5 1/4" variance to the 20' total of side yard setbacks this would include a 5' 8 3/8" setback to a minimum set back of 8' on one side and a 4' 8 7 /8" setback to the other minimum required setback of 12'. Also, a 27'11" variance to lot width requirement of 60' to allow for placement of a single-family residential structure on the parcel. The lot is currently empty but did have a single-family residential structure on it as of 2013. The public is welcome to attend. Additional information is available at Town of Snow Hill, 103 Bank Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863 or by calling 410-632-2080. The Town of Snow Hill is in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special accommodations to attend this meeting contact us at 410-632-2080. Snow Hill Board of Appeals OCD-11/16/2t _________________________________ Rosenberg & Associates, LLC 4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 301-907-8000 Diane S. Rosenberg, et al 4340 East West Highway, Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 Substitute Trustee Plaintiff(s) v. Estate of Donald Holmes Jr. Nancy A. Holmes 7402 Coastal Highway, Unit 203 Ocean City, MD 21842 Defendant(s) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY,
MARYLAND Case No. C-23-CV-23-000114
NOTICE
Notice is hereby given this 14th day of November, 2023, by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, that the sale of 7402 Coastal Highway, Unit 203, Ocean City, MD 21842, made and reported, will be ratified and confirmed, unless cause to the contrary thereof be shown on or before the 18th day of December, 2023, provided a copy of this notice be inserted in a weekly newspaper printed in said County, once in each of three successive weeks before the 11th day of December, 2023. The Report of Sale states the amount of the foreclosure sale price to be $444,000.00. Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County, MD True Copy Test: Susan R. Braniecki Clerk of the Circuit Court Worcester County MD OCD-11/16/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of JULIA ANN CROPPER AKA: JULIA ANN WEYGANDT Estate No. 19969 Notice is given that PHILIP LYNN WEYGANDT whose address is 146 MARBLE MINE ROAD, BAKERSVILLE, NC 28705 was on NOVEMBER 09, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JULIA ANN CROPPER who died on NOVEMBER 1, 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 9th day of MAY, 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-11/16/3t _________________________________
PAGE 40
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Today
TRC reviews proposed mosque, EV charging By Hunter Hine Staff Writer (Nov. 16, 2023) The Worcester County Technical Review Committee reviewed the site plans of a mosque and an electric vehicle charging station at their meeting on Nov. 8. Both approvals are contingent upon the applicants resubmitting revised plans based on the committee members’ recommendations, said Stuart White, a development, review and permitting specialist with the county. County Zoning Administrator Kristin Tremblay said in an email that applicants return to Technical Review Committee sometimes multiple times before committee members forward the projects to planning commission. “If (the revisions are) satisfactory, signature site plan approval can be granted or a recommendation of favor is made to proceed to Planning Commission when necessary,” White said in an email. “There wasn’t anything major in the staff reports that would jeopardize the projects,” he added. In conducting a first review of a site plan for a 2,500 square-foot mosque, submitted by applicant Mohamed Ramadan, the committee found several minor aspects that
HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY
The Worcester County Technical Review Committee reviewed plans for a 2,500 square-foot mosque that is proposed for construction on Eagles Nest Road in West Ocean City. Pictured is the parcel where applicants plan to build the mosque.
needed to be revisited. Ramadan proposed to build the mosque on Eagles Nest Road in West Ocean City, and it will comprise a 1,745 square-foot prayer center, an office space and a “warming kitchen.” A report from the committee asked Ramadan to provide lighting plans and bike racks locations in his plan
NEWARK 4 BR 2 BA F FA ARMHOUSE CHARM Home in town of Newark with public water/sewer, yet no w recently subdivided off a town taxes! This property was larger parcel and the house e offers .65 acres, a 4 bedroom/2 bath two-story hom me, and fenced in backyard. House has just been freshly painted throughout interior! Large living room with Fisher wood stove. Spacious en and dining area, laundry open concept combo kitche room with side entrance to deck, flex room downstairs c that could be used as not added in the bedroom count a 5th bedroom. Upstairs offe ers 4 bedrooms and one full bath. Hardwood floors in livving room and upstairs hallways. Full attic with pull dow wnstairs. Large front porch, 8506 NEWARK ROAD NEWAR RK side deck & fenced in rear yyard. Large storage building $289,900 on propertyy.. Roof replaced a approx. 3 years ago by Chesapeake Roofing. Dual zone heat pum mps, approx. 10 years old. Gas stove in kkitchen new in '22. See documents for copy of survey. Newark are ea has access to high speed internet through Choptank Fiber now.
Lauren Bunting Broker Cell: 410.422.9899 lwbunting@comcast.net www.LaurenBunting.com
6200 Coastal Hwy S-101, Oceean City • Office: 410.524.6400
revisions, and also asked him to relocate a proposed shed so the structure would meet required setbacks. A letter from the Department of Environmental Programs said an existing well and septic system on the property must be sealed before building permits are finalized. There is a house on the property that is being relocated, which the well and septic previously served, according to the letter. The same letter asked Ramadan to outline the source of public water and sewer service on the site plan. A letter from the Public Works Department asked developers to relocate trees away from the pavement edges so drivers have a better line of sight. Ramadan was also asked to maintain fire lanes throughout the project’s construction. Committee members also reviewed a minor site plan for a 35space electric vehicle charging station between Sinepuxent Road and Route 611 just South of where the two roads intersect. The proposed station would be built in an area that’s zoned as a C-1
Neighborhood Commercial District, with the project sitting across Route 611 from Mystic Harbor Boulevard. The applicant for the project is 611 Holdings II, and the plans were created by Vista Design, an architecture and engineering firm from Showell. A report from the technical review committee asked the designers to add a 50-foot setback from the center of Sinepuxent Road, and for the applicants to consider relocating the handicapped parking spots. A memo about the site from the Worcester County Department of Environmental programs said that 2.37 acres of the 2.42-acre lot is currently forested, and the owners plan to clear 1.48 acres of the forested area. The Department of Public Works included a memo saying that the owners need two commercial entrance bonds from the county roads division. The county roads division also recommended that the owners cut back the forest at the northwest part of the parcel so cars have a safe line of sight as drivers exit the lot, according to the memo.
November 16-23 DA AY/TIME
ADDRESS
BR/BA
STYLE
PRICE
AGENCY/AGENTT
Fri-Mon, 11am-4pm
He erron o Harbourr,, 120th St., Bayside
1BR/2BR/3BR/4BR+
Condos, Towns & SF
-
Nanette Pavier/Holiday Real R Estate
Sat & Sun, 11am-3pm.
Ha arbor Court, 12801 Memory Lane
3-6BR/3.5-6.5 BA
Residential
-
Kathleen M. Clark/Monog gram Realty
Sunday Noon-2pm
7704 4 Coastal Hwy y., #102, Ocean City
1BR/1BA
Condominium
$310,000
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Saturrday y 10am-Noon
4111 Fiesta Rd., Ocean City
BR/3BA
Residential
$739,900
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Saturrday 1-3pm
1 66th Strreet #101, Ocean City
2BR/2BA
Condominium
$499,900
Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty
Saturrday 11am-1pm.
180 01 Atlantic Ave., #407, Ocean City
2BR/2BA
Condominium
$699,900
Power of 2/Hileman Rea al Estate
Saturrday 10am-1pm
12 Abbott Place, Ocean Pines
4BR/3BA
Residential
$419,900
Laurren Bunting/Keller Willia ams Realty
Saturrday Noon-3pm
10 06 Nicoles Court #144, Millsborro
2BR/2.5BA
Townhouse
$285,000
Charlie Carr/Irron o Va Valley Re eal Estate
Presented free as a courtesy to L Licensed REAL LTORS® who are regular Ocean City Today & Bayside Gazette Advertisers. For all other REAL LT TORS®, there is a weekly charge of $10 per listing.
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
PAGE 41
Ocean City Today
BUSINESS BRIEFS phy, travel and hiking. Basumallik is accepting new patients at TidalHealth Primary Care at 1639 Woodbrooke Drive in Salisbury. To schedule an appointment, call 410912-5785
New pediatrician
Dr. Neil Basumallik
Dr. Deepa Manimegalan
New physician TidalHealth recently welcomed Dr. Neil Basumallik to TidalHealth Primary Care in Salisbury. Basumallik received his medical degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo, Jacobs School of Medicine in Buffalo, New York; and a master’s degree in public health from Columbia University in New York City. He completed his internal medicine residency at Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Basumallik is board certified by the
American Board of Internal Medicine and is a member of the American College of Physicians. He has participated in several publications and conducted clinical research as a medical student researcher at the National Institutes of Health and the Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute in Bethesda. Basumallik’s professional interests include preventative medicine, nutrition and public health. Bausmallik grew up in Salisbury and graduated from James M. Bennett High School. When he is not treating patients, he enjoys photogra-
Dr. Deepa Manimegalan recently became part of the TidalHealth team of pediatric physicians, working alongside pediatric subspecialists and healthcare providers. Manimegalan works closely with parents to help them understand their child’s healthcare needs, including immunizations and regular check-ups. She is trained in diagnosing and treating a wide range of childhood illnesses and diseases, from asthma and allergies to infectious diseases, developmental disorders and more. She is also skilled in monitoring and promoting the physical, emotional and social well-being of children. Manimegalan is now accepting new patients at TidalHealth Primary Care at 1639 Woodbrooke Drive in Salisbury. To schedule an appointment, visit tidalhealth.org/schedulepediatrics or call 410-912-5785.
Merit award Becker Morgan Group recently reContinued on Page 42
REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE JUST LISTED
BEACH GET-AWAY 818 BAHIA DRIVE, OCEAN CITY
NNETW HE
O ET MARK
BEACH RETREAT!
12346 OLD BRIDGE ROAD, WEST OCEAN CITY 2-BR 1-BA beach retreat. Nice size Living Room, Eat-in kitchen & Breakfast Bar. Stack Washer & Dryer. Three Ceiling Fans with Lights. Wooden sundeck. Close to Assateague Island & Ocean City beaches, boardwalk & inlet, shopping & restaurants. Community is Open YearRound and is 50+. BETTER CALL NOW BEFORE IT S TOO LATE! NOW is the time to Own at The Beach! $179,900
2-BR home overlooks Walkers Pond. Most furnishings are included & it’s ready to be your beach get-away. Low HOA fees. Access to community's amenities: 3 swimming pools, 2 tennis courts, pickle ball courts, 9-hole miniature golf course, shuffleboard, wildlife sanctuary pond/park area, 8-acre pond with walking/jogging path around it, bayfront boardwalk with 3 piers for fishing & crabbing or enjoying the sunset. Convenient to shopping, restaurants & Ocean City's beautiful Northside Park. Bring your beach cruisers & start enjoying the beach life! Make an appointment to see this gem today- It won't last long. Enjoy the beautiful water view of this coastal get-away. Offered at $399,000
Larry Holdren Real Estate, Inc©
Larry Holdren Real Estate, Inc©
For More Information Call 800-252-2223 • 410-250-2700
For More Information Call 800-252-2223 • 410-250-2700
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www.larryholdrenrealestate.com • email: ocmdhre@gmail.com
COMPLETELY REMODELED 3BR/2BA HOME
NEW CONSTRUCTION
13901 Coastal Hwy., Suite 8, Ocean City, MD
Located in the highly sought after community of Montego Bay in quiet North OC, this 3- bedroom/2-bathroom home features a completely remodeled interior and is being sold fully furnished...all furnishings are BRAND NEW! Upgrades include new a/c system, new stainless- steel appliances, new granite counters, new bathrooms, all new plumbing, all new lighting, new washer & dryer, new drywall, new interior trim/doors, new subflooring, new luxury vinyl plank flooring, new insulated windows, new exterior doors, and new storm doors. Community amenities include 2 inground swimming pools, 1 kiddie pool, 2 tennis courts, a 9-hole mini-golf course, a shuffleboard court, a pickle ball court, an 8-acre wildlife sanctuary with large pond and blacktop walking/jogging trail, and a bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers...all for a low HOA fee of $396.00 a year! $339,900
Call Bill Rothstein 800-745-5988 • 443-280-2530 montegobayrealty@aol.com
500 NAUTICAL LANE OCEAN CITY
13901 Coastal Hwy., Suite 8, Ocean City, MD
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
PAGE 42
Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
REAL ESTATE REPORT
Understanding buyer’s agents in real estate Buyer’s agents represent clients through property search, negotiations, more By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Nov. 17, 2023) Agency discussions can be a little confusing to the consumer with listing agents, subagents, dual agency and buyer agency. But if you are a buyer, understanding the buyer’s agent role is key. A buyer’s agent helps real estate buyers navigate the real estate market; they can also save a buyer time and money on the road to homeownership. Buyer agency agreements are entered into with a written contract between the broker and the buyer seeking representation. The buyer’s agent helps the buyer evaluate properties, prepare offers
and develop negotiation strategies – the buyer’s agent works in the best interest of the buyer. In more detail, a buyer’s agent will: • Find the right property. After a buyer consultation, the buyer’s agent will schedule appointments to see properties, give insight into various property types and neighborhoods in their area of expertise, and help buyers decide which house is right for them. • Negotiate the offer. The buyer’s agent is key in helping clients determine the appropriate price to offer and present it to the seller’s agent. The buyer’s agent uses their experience in negotiating deals to help a buyer save money and help avoid various pitfalls. • Recommend other professionals. A buyer’s agent is also going to refer you to reliable mortgage brokers, real estate attorneys and title companies, home inspectors, movers, and other services needed throughout a real estate transaction. These
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details are key in getting to a successful real estate purchase smoothly. • Help overcome setbacks. During real estate transactions, there can be home inspection hurdles, appraisal issues, buyer financing snags — and a buyer’s agent can advise you on how to proceed with the transaction. The buyer’s agent also acts as a buffer be-
tween you and the sellers or their broker. When it comes to real estate negotiations, it’s crucial to have an experienced professional who remains calm and offers productive solutions. — Lauren Bunting is the Broker of Record for with Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City.
Application period open for Snow Hill Chamber biz grants (Nov. 17, 2023) The Snow Hill Area Chamber of Commerce has opened the application period for the organization’s 2024 Business Members Grant Program. According to a news release, the chamber has allocated $25,000 from the proceeds of the annual Oyster Roast and Seafood Festival for economic development to assist new and existing business, and commercial property owners.
The commercial enterprise funds will help retain and grow current businesses, and increase functionality, curb appeal and safety of commercial properties. The money will also provide support to new businesses investing in Snow Hill. Previously, the town provided $100,000 through the Snow Hill Business Grant Program, providing funding to 13 to local businesses for See TOWN Page 43
BUSINESS BRIEFS Continued from Page 41 ceived a Merit Award for Excellence in Design from the American Institute of Architects Maryland for designing Duck Creek Regional Library in Smyrna, Delaware. Becker Morgan Group’s design incorporates the circa 1915 Post Office building on Main Street with an 18,000 square-foot addition to create a new, modern library. Particular care was taken to respect but not mimic the old post office building, while creating a facility that matches the scale and feel of
downtown Smyrna. Multiple community engagements were held to gather input and raise awareness of the library’s offerings and needs. The building is designed to be energy efficient and offers an inviting presence for users, with large flexible open reading spaces and multiple meeting rooms to serve the community. The new Duck Creek Regional Library replaces a badly outdated and undersized facility, providing the heart of downtown with a vibrant library that will enliven the Smyrna area.
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
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Ocean City Today
Sport bets generate $5.8M for MD (Nov. 17, 2023) Maryland’s sports wagering market had the best month yet this October, with the 13 retail and 12 mobile sportsbooks combining to generate more than $5.8 million in contributions to the state. Each sportsbook, including the retail establishment at Ocean Downs off of Route 589, pays 15 percent of taxable wins to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund, which supports public education programs. According to a news release, statewide handle in October totaled more than $483 million, with mobile handle accounting for almost 96 percent. Mobile wagering delivered over $5.5 million in contributions to the state, while retail sportsbooks contributed $310,717. The release said the latest contribution was the best single-month total by a margin of 9.5 percent, surpassing the more than $5.3 million generated in March. October’s handle was Maryland’s second-best single-month total, trailing only December 2022.Through the first four months of Fiscal Year 2024, sports wagering has contributed more than $14.9 million to the Blueprint fund. “People love to bet on football, and that is certainly reflected in the han-
dle this time of year,” Maryland Lottery and Gaming Director John Martin said in the release. “The Ravens’ success and college football are contributing factors, and there is a convergence of the seasons in October, with the baseball playoffs and World Series and the start of hockey and basketball. From an overall perspective, the results show that a robust market has taken shape here in Maryland and is making a steady contribution to the state’s education programs.” A detailed summary of each sportsbook’s October 2023 results, including handle, hold percentage, prizes paid, promotional play, taxable win, and contribution to the state, along with a summary of statewide handle and hold by sport is available for viewing and download at mdgaming.com. Maryland’s sports wagering market launched with five retail locations, including Ocean Downs, in December 2021. The first seven mobile sportsbooks launched in November 2022. As of the end of October, the release said the state had a total 13 retail locations and 12 mobile operators. More retail and mobile sportsbooks are expected to launch in the near future.
Town previously awarded $100K Continued from Page 42 various projects. The opportunity was funded by a one-time allocation of American Rescue Plan Act funds to support economic recovery after the pandemic. To continue the positive impact the money provided the community,
the chamber launched the business grant program. For more information, or to apply for the grant, visit snowhillchamber.com/2024-member-grant or email info@snowhillchamber.com Grants are due by Jan. 31.
TOWN OF BERLIN
PUBLIC NOTICE CASE NO. 9508 (r) IN THE MATTER OF THE CONTINUING INVESTIGATION OF THE ELECTRIC FUEL RATE AND PURCHASED POWER COST ADJUSTMENT CHARGES OF THE MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC SYSTEM OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF BERLIN PUBLIC UTILITY LAW JUDGE’S NOTICE OF HEARING A Public Hearing in the above-entitled matter will be conducted by the Maryland Public Service Commission on Monday, December 4, 2023, at 1:00 p.m., in the Commission's 19th floor hearing room, William Donald Schaefer Tower, 6 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Maryland. The hearing will be live streamed on the Public Utility Law Judge Division’s YouTube Channel using the following link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYK5mu0UMAUOqSQowRq2TIQ.
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A screenshot of the DraftKings sports book app shows available bets and odds.
302-537-4500 DrLoisJames.com 17 Atlantic Ave, Ste. 4 Route 26 • Ocean View (Next to Oceanova)
PAGE 44
Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
STEWART DOBSON/OCEAN CITY TODAY
CROPPER RECOGNIZED STEWART DOBSON/OCEAN CITY TODAY
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Lower Shore Land Trust Executive Administrator Margo Resto presents the Volunteer of the Year Award to Laurie Lawton-Smith at the trust’s Flannel Formal at Merry Sherwood Plantation on Saturday. So far, Lawton-Smith has given the organization more than 90 hours of volunteer service.
Kate Patton, who is stepping down as the Lower Shore Land Trust’s executive director after many years of service, recognizes Hugh Cropper IV for his efforts on behalf of the organization with the Stephen N. Parker Conservation Legacy Award. The presentation took place Saturday at the trust’s Flannel Formal in Berlin. Cropper joined the trust board in 2015 and has been the chairman since 2017. Since the trust’s creation in 1990, it has protected from development some 24,000 acres of land in the three-county area via conservation easements and other means.
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Today
PAGE 45
COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS
SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OCEAN CITY TODAY
OCTOBER ART The Art League of Ocean City unveiled the exhibits and pieces that were on display during the month of October during the organization’s First Friday reception on Oct. 6 at the Ocean City Center for the Arts on 94th Street. Above, Tia Tuvesson, of South Point, poses with her piece made of foam pool noodles for the Abstract Show. At right, Gerilyn Gaskill, studio artist at the Ocean City Center for the Arts, signs the "Preston Goes Purple" truck, parked in front of the arts center, in support of the Art of Recovery Show that was on display inside the gallery. The show featured art created by individuals in recovery from across the Eastern Shore.
SUBMTTED PHOTOS/OCEAN CITY TODAY
WEAR PINK DAY Ocean City Elementary School recently participated in a Wear Pink Day in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. The faculty and staff collected $250 to donate to Women Supporting Women in Salisbury. Above, faculty and staff members pose for a picture in their pink attire. Pictured at right, from left, are third graders Blake Riley and Berkay Cakir.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OCEAN CITY TODAY
WPS PEP RALLY Worcester Preparatory School students, faculty, and staff recently recently gathered for a pep rally to commence this school year's chosen theme of IMPACT. Pictured above on the left, Worcester Prep fourth grader Lila Holland had a great time participating in the games during the pep rally. At right, Worcester Prep Cheerleaders Evelyn Westman, Maggie McCabe, Quinn Solloway, Grant Crothers, Madilyn Nechay and Avery Roselle helped get the crowd hyped up during the pep rally.
PAGE 46
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Today
COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
ALUMNI LEGACY SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
HONOR SOCIETY The Charles R. Jenkins Chapter of the National Honor Society at Worcester Preparatory School recently inducted 30 new members. Pictured are the inductees after the ceremony. Pictured, front row from left, are Angeline Todorov, Frank Miller, Sydney Tingle, Lydia Schwartz, Avery Roselle, Emma Zajdel and Danielle Carr. Second row, Abigail Ament, Lindsay Bruner, Nazli Unal, Aurora Holland and Nathan Montague. Third row, Jayden Scopp, Lucas Nicastro, Michael DePalma, Owen West, Landon Schul, Ryan Mann, Edward Martikyan, and Aleksey Klimins. Back row, Travis Netting, Ryan Lenox, William Wells, Jackson Fernley, Allen Zhang, James Haley, Jack Lynch, Benjamin McGovern, Dillon Scopp and Andrew McCormick.
Members of the Worcester Preparatory School Alumni Association recently recognized individuals who have been a noteworthy part of the school’s legacy at the ninth annual honors awards ceremony on Oct. 5. The honorees pose with their awards at the ceremony. Pictured, from left are, Coach Tom Heiderman, recipient of the athletic achievement award; Debbie Speier, recipient of the service to Worcester award; and Troy Purnell, who received the distinguished alumnus award.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
HEAVENLY HATS Ocean City Elementary School held its annual Heavenly Hats Spirit Day on Oct. 4. For a $1 donation, students, faculty and staff were able to wear hats to school that day. A total $679 was collected for the Heavenly Hats Foundation during the activity. Students from Faith Murray’s fourth grade class pose with their hats.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Kindergarteners Ava Bell and Anna Lee Kotzur smile while wearing colorful baseball hats.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
CHARACTER COSTUMES SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Second grader Jacob Savage smiles in a sombrero.
Kindergarten students at Ocean City Elementary pose with their teacher, Liz Engh, while dressed up as their favorite story characters during a celebration of their love of reading.
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
PAGE 47
Ocean City Today
ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY'S DIAMOND JUBILEE GALA
PHOTO COURTESY GREG POULOS
State Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38) and Del. Wayne Hartman (D-38C) present Art League President John Sisson and Executive Director Rina Thaler with state proclamations honoring the 60th anniversary of the gala.
PHOTO COURTESY GREG POULOS
Pictured, from left, are gala committee members Dawne Pappas, Courtney Blackford, Nancy Dofflemyer, Heather Ross, Virginia Pappas, Eileen Stamnas, Rebecca Galyon and Patti Selig.
NIGHT TO SHINE The Art League of Ocean City's Diamond Jubilee Gala was held on Nov. 4 at the Ashore Resort & Beach Club. The event celebrated the Art League's 60th anniversary and was a fundraiser for programs of the nonprofit arts organization.
PHOTO COURTESY GREG POULOS
PHOTO COURTESY ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY
Pictured, from left, are attendees Wil Rothermel, B.L Strang-Moya, Fiona O'Brien, and Kristen Helf enjoying the gala.
Ocean City Tourism Director Tom Perlozzo poses with Art League Executive Director Rina Thaler.
PHOTO COURTESY ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY PHOTO COURTESY ART LEAGUE OF OCEAN CITY
Artist Kathy Denk body paints model Drew Berkeley to blend into the scenery.
State Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38), Drew Berkeley and Ruth Waters pose for a photo in front of a scenic wall at the gala.
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Ocean City Today
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
CINDY HOFFMAN/OCEAN CITY TODAY
PATTON CELEBRATED
Kate Patton received a citation from the Town of Berlin for her 18 years of service as executive director of the Lower Shore Land Trust. “The Land Trust is crucial to preserving the unique characteristics of the Eastern Shore of Maryland,” Mayor Zack Tyndall said. “Her work has protected a patchwork of farmlands and waterways. Patton said she has greatly appreciated the partnership with the town. “We have a lot to do still,” Patton said. “We need to be more walkable and bikeable. We’ve got waterways to protect, and when we continue to grow, if we are not doing it thoughtfully and mindfully, we are going to be causing a lot more problems. Berlin is the coolest town, and we have a lot of opportunities here with people who are continuing to keep it that way. I hope to be helpful in that. ” SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
CLOTHING COLLECTION
NOTICE OF LIVE AUCTION Beach Equipment Franchise / Mid-Beach Parcels $500 Minimum Bid Requirement for each Parcel A public auction will be held on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at 10:00 a.m., in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue in Ocean City, Maryland. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. The following mid-section beach parcels will be auctioned: 38th - 41st Streets 42nd - 44th Streets 45th - 47th Streets 51st - 53rd Streets 57th - 59th Streets
60th - 62nd Streets 63rd - 65th Streets 69th - 71st Streets 72nd - 74th Streets 75th - 78th Streets
ON AUCTION DAY, the successful bidder shall: (1) Provide satisfactory proof of identity and legal age (i.e. Driver’s License or Government-issued Photo ID) (2) Pay a One Thousand Dollar ($1,000.00) non-refundable deposit for each successful bid. Please bring cash, cashier’s checks or certified checks payable to the Mayor and City Council. PERSONAL CHECKS NOT ACCEPTED. On the dates specified below, the successful bidder shall: (1) Submit a personal Credit Report on or before Monday, December 11, 2023 (2) Sign a statement authorizing the Mayor and Council to make inquiry of personal background, financial and credit worthiness on or before Monday, December 11, 2023. (3) Pay 20% of the annual fee for each parcel less the $1,000.00 deposit to the Billing Office in City Hall on or before Monday, December 11, 2023. (4) Provide a brief plan of management on or before Monday, December 11, 2023, clarifying if you will directly oversee the operation or, if not, how day-to-day operations will be handled; providing details of your experience with the beach equipment rental industry; and advising if you have obtained necessary equipment and boxes or of your arrangements to acquire necessary equipment. (5) Obtain, at the operator's own expense, comprehensive general liability insurance coverage and products liability insurance coverage in at least the amount of $1,000,000.00 combined single limit, which insurance coverage shall name the Mayor and City Council as an additional insured, and a certificate of insurance evidencing such coverage shall be furnished to the Mayor and City Council by the operator and be approved by Ocean City's City Clerk before contract endorsement. (6) The second-highest bidder will have first right of refusal should the initial successful bidder neglect to meet credit, experience or management requirements. A sealed bid will be conducted if the second-highest bidder declines the award. The Mayor and Council may reject any and all bids for any reason it deems appropriate and may rebid upon such terms, conditions and manner it deems appropriate. (7) Sign a three-year contract (2024- 2026) for each parcel. An auction bid packet can be found at http://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/city-clerk/ or email dchavis@oceancitymd.gov to request the information. Please direct questions to 410-289-8842.
Members of the Worcester Preparatory School's Student Government Association recently joined the Teal Bay Mitzvah Team of Ocean Pines in collecting winter clothing items for local charities, They then donated the items to Diakonia, Worcester County GOLD, Hope and Life Outreach, and Shepherd's Nook. Pictured, from left, are student government association advisors Madelyn Beebe and Paul Cyryca, Teal Bay Mitzvah members Cyndy Spicknall and Margit Novack, Student Government Association President Claire Windrow and Head of School John McDonald.
Wor-Wic accepting applications now for upcoming term (Nov. 17, 2023) Wor-Wic Community College is accepting registrations for credit classes offered during the spring term, which begins on Friday, Jan. 12. Early registration is encouraged for the best selection of classes. Admission, financial aid, career exploration, enrollment coaching, academic advising and registration services are available 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays. Student services are also available on select Saturdays – check the events calendar at worwic.edu for dates and times. Wor-Wic offers several different credit class formats, including oncampus and online. Visit the website for more information and to register. New students who need help should call 410-334-2895 or email admissions@worwic.edu and include name and phone number.
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
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Ocean City Today
BOE finalizes cost estimate for Buckingham State set to take another look at decision not to fund Berlin school’s replacement By Hunter Hine Staff Writer (Nov. 17, 2023) The Worcester County Board of Education has finalized cost estimates for Buckingham Elementary School’s replacement project, and the state has agreed to re-evaluate whether to help fund it. The board held a special meeting on Nov. 9, when members voted unanimously to revise the school system’s Fiscal Year 2025 Capital Improvement Program with new planning and construction cost estimates for Buckingham Elementary School in Berlin. Now the 2025 improvement plans will go to the Interagency Committee of School Construction (IAC) where officials will determine if, and how much, the state will fund the project. In January, the IAC told Worcester County’s School System’s Facilities Planner Joe Price that the state would not fund the project, after the school board had requested in its 2024 fiscal year capital improvement plan. The IAC said it shot down the request since there were 641 available classroom seats in Showell Elementary, Berlin Intermediate and Ocean City Elementary schools. At the special meeting last Thursday, Price said that on Oct. 23, Superintendent Lou Taylor and State Senator Mary Beth Carozza (R-38) met with Alex Donahue, the executive director of the IAC, to discuss their concerns over the state’s ruling on Buckingham. Donahue told them to send the IAC a revised capital improvement plan that included Buckingham Elementary, and that IAC officials would review their previous decision, Price said. “Without promising anything they were going to take another look at it,” Price said. Price said board members approved a version of the school sys-
HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY
The Worcester County Board of Education submitted revised cost estimates and funding requests to the state in an effort to pay for the Buckingham Elementary School Replacement Project. Pictured is Buckingham Elementary School in Berlin.
tem’s 2025 capital improvement program in September. That improvement plan was amended on Oct. 24, and again amended on Nov. 3, which revised the Buckingham project’s preliminary cost estimate based on correspondence with the county government, Price said. In the version of the school system’s “Summary of Current Planning and Funding Request” that was revised on Oct. 24, Buckingham Elementary’s replacement project was estimated to cost just under $69.5 million in total. The estimated local contribution then was $63.6 million, and the estimated “maximum state allocation” was just under $5.9 million. In the revised version from Nov. 3, the total cost is estimated at about $55.9 million, with $50 million in
local contributions and a maximum state allocation of about $5.9 million. At last Tuesday’s county commissioners meeting, Commissioner Chip Bertino said that the school board asked the commissioners to remove the school system’s capital improvement plan from the county’s overall capital improvement plan because the board still needed to vote on the revised version of the Buckingham project’s funding numbers. The commissioners voted to approve a draft of the county’s capital improvement program, which included Buckingham Elementary, but not the funding numbers. Bertino said they could be added to the draft later. “We were supposed to take that to the commissioners this past Tuesday and the reason we didn’t do that is
because I wanted … board approval before I take it over to them. I didn’t want to take it to them and then bring it back to you all,” Taylor said at the board meeting. Taylor said he, Price, and Vince Tolbert, the school system’s chief financial officer, would present the revised school’s improvement program at the commissioners’ next meeting. Taylor invited the other members of the board to join him there. After approving the Buckingham Elementary funding revisions, the board went into closed session for about an hour and 40 minutes to discuss “safety and security measures.” On Monday, the board held another special meeting, which was a two-hour-and-forty-minute closed session to again discuss matters of safety and security.
http://www.surveymonkey.com/r/29L6BXW
Commentary
Ocean City Today Nov. 17, 2023
Page 50
Truck show could bring sideshows All red-blooded Americans love trucks, and all red-blooded Americans especially love big trucks. Those who don’t fall into two categories: those who drive hybrid vehicles and think multi-grain snacks are saving the planet, and those who prefer stitched leather car interiors and quiet Sunday nights sipping wine and watching Masterpiece Theater on PBS. So much for stereotypes. But a divide does exist between people who are thrilled that a monster truck competition could be coming to Ocean City next October, and those who fret that its appeal is too lowbrow for their tastes and the tastes of the people they would prefer to see visit in the fall. Certainly, the city’s special events team and council members will hear both perspectives in the coming weeks, following the announcement this week that these big wheels could be turning downtown on the weekend following several major events on the beach and just before Sunfest. Because Ocean City established long ago that almost any kind of promotion is better than no promotion in terms of generating tourism-related business, the nature of the event itself is not as great a concern as what might accompany its arrival in town. That would be a cavalcade of fans who might assume that having monster trucks on the beach for the weekend also means truck weekend on Coastal Highway. Having custom trucks bounce-racing and freestyling on 66inch tires propelled by 1,500 hp engines has to be a sight to see (and hear), and the take on these events from around the country suggests a sellout crowd is all but guaranteed. All that is fine, but it remains that shows and rallies involving motor vehicles seem to spawn sideshows by amateurs who want to draw attention to themselves. That circumstance has to be considered, as the council embarks on its path to yea or nay. Monster truck show? That, as they say, is family entertainment, but officials should also entertain the possibility of invoking the special event zone designation that weekend as a governor on the wannabes who also are likely to come to town.
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 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
Say it, don’t print it
There are some things you just can’t say in a local newspaper without getting into trouble, and by that I mean certain words and expressions that many people think are funny when they hear them on cable TV or streaming service programs but are ... bad, very bad when they see them in print. I never understood that, despite some advice I received long ago. The thing is, even the Disney Channel has its share of things-you-can’t-say-in-thisnewspaper, thanks to its Marvel franchise semi-superBy hero Jessica Jones, who rouStewart tinely calls people she doesn’t like an ... (want to buy a Dobson vowel?) That’s what I find so curious. If she says it, it’s sarcastically humorous, but if I say it, people would think that I’m an (see reference above) who ought to be run out of town. Meanwhile, over on Freevee, via Prime Video, a single episode of “Bosch: Legacy” can drop more bombs in a 50-minute episode than the 8th Air Force did in all of World War II. In bombing terms, it’s just one ka-blam! after another. “Hi, Harry.” “Ka-blam!” But here’s the other thing I don’t get: Disney wanted to edit out all the profanity in its recent documentary, “The Beatles Get Back,” in which archival footage features the boys saying (can’t repeat it here) and (can’t repeat that either), but backed off reluctantly after objections from the remaining members of the group and the director. The irony is that Disney maintained that it
was only trying to protect the minds of the tykes and tots from the corrupting nature of foul language. And yet, it had no problem scarring me for life by knocking off “Old Yeller.” For those unfamiliar with “Old Yeller,” it’s a movie about a great and wonderful dog that saves various family members from being eaten by pigs and assorted other inconveniences ... before it comes down with the “hydraphobee” (AKA rabies) and that is that. Adios, Old Yeller, see you in the by-and-by. I was 10 years old when it came out, so there I was watching this wholesome fun and feeling good about the world, only to discover that someone at Disney apparently had suggested, “Hey, this will cheer up the kids. Let’s give Old Yeller the ‘hydrophobee’ and knock him off.” What??? I didn’t even know there was such a word as “Ka-blam,” at the time, but I’m pretty sure I said something close to it right after that critical moment, judging from the look I got from my parents. “What did you say, young man?” “I don’t know. All I know is that those (see reference above again) shot Old Yeller.” “Well,” my parents said (and would say repeatedly over the next few years) “we don’t say things like that in this house.” “Okay,” I replied. “How about if I write it instead of saying it?” “Oh no,” they said in unison. “That would be even worse.” “Why?” I asked. “Son,” my newspaperman father said, “you say something and it’s here and gone. But you write it down? Well, that just proves the power of print.”
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Today
Letters to the editor
Legionella bacteria in OC water supply
Editor, We have an issue with legionella bacteria in the water in Ocean City. Our water, like that of most cities, contains legionella bacteria in small concentrations. This does not present a problem during the summer season. The small amount of chlorine added to the water coupled with the fact that water travels from the water tanks to toilets and showers rather quickly during the season means that the legionella has a very limited opportunity to grow. Unfortunately, this is not the case during the off season. The large condos that had over 1,000 people in them during the season may contain less than 100. Some condo units may be vacant for weeks or even months. Whatever chlorine the city added to the water has long since evaporated. And since the heat must remain on in vacant condos to prevent pipe freezing, there is an opportunity for those low concentrations of legionella to grow and reach alarming levels. Some condo associations such as the Golden Sands and Sea Watch have established their own programs to prevent issues with legionella problems. They have installed their own expensive water treatment systems to treat the water coming in from the city with additional chlorine. And since the added chlorine will evaporate over time, they have established a routine flushing program during the off season where they enter vacant units on a periodic basis to flush the water from the pipes that has depleted levels of chlorine bringing in freshly treated water with a higher level of chlorine. There are very few building in Ocean City that can afford to install their own treatment system. However, the city can help these buildings by simply increasing the level of chlorine they add to the water in the off season and working with the small buildings on an internal program to flush the stagnant water from individual units bringing in fresh water. When the water system is designed to meet the needs of 250,000 visitors, water moves very slowly through the pipes if far less than 10 percent of that number are in
town. However, if the city can encourage these buildings to enact a flushing program, this will more or less replicate some of the water usage during the summer and greatly lessen the chance that otherwise vacant units will develop high levels of legionella. Ocean City’s lifeline is tourism. No one wants to vacation in an area where they believe there is a legionella outbreak. The city must act to prevent this from happening. Jim Thomas Silver Spring
Forever horizons over wind turbines Editor, I am choosing forever horizons over offshore wind turbines. We can’t replace that view of the Atlantic Ocean and the sunrise. Those turbines will be at least three times the tallest building in Ocean City. There will be 121 of those turbines with each blade the length of a football field. Because the turbines will be placed about 12 miles off our shore, they will be visible. Many years ago, there were dunes already on our beaches in Ocean City. Some thought they should be removed. They were removed and it turned out, that wasn’t such a good idea. Soon, people realized the dunes were there naturally for a reason. Finally, the dunes were restored. That has helped reduce flooding and extreme beach erosion. So many beautiful plants can be seen growing in our dunes. I love walking the paths to the beach. We can’t undo what will happen if those offshore wind turbines are placed in the Atlantic Ocean. So, now is the time to decide what is best for all who consider our Ocean City the most wonderful place to be. Some come to relax. Others enjoy the beach. Some stay in the water swimming, surfing, fishing, parasailing and so much more. Others come for all the restaurants, ice cream and popcorn. There are endless possibilities. So, forever OC horizons or offshore wind turbines, what will you choose? For me, it certainly will be forever OC horizons. Anita Welsch Bishopville
To comment on US Wind’s Draft Environmental Impact statement on a proposed wind farm off the coast of Ocean City, contact: Maryland Offshore Wind DEIS Program Chief Office of Renewable Energy Programs Bureau of Ocean Energy Management 45600 Woodlawn Road Sterling, VA 20166 Make your decisions and comments known by writing to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management postmarked by Nov. 20.
Be ‘careful and watchful’ over wind projects
Editor, Recently, Danish company Ørsted announced it was ceasing operations on Ocean Wind I and Ocean Wind II offshore wind farms off the coast of New Jersey, citing increased costs due to interest rates, inflation and supply chain issues. It’s kind of funny that this industry, so beloved of the Biden Administration, is suffering losses and is even imperiled by Bidenomics. For a majority of the people on the shore, this is very good news. And we love the additional bad news for the OSW (and indeed the entire “green energy”) industry coming out almost every day- “clean energy stocks are tanking,” local governments saying, “Nope! Not wel-
PAGE 51 come here!” or passing regulations that bring to light just how incredibly expensive and unworkable these technologies truly are, etc. In my opinion, anything that interferes with the “green” steam roller is welcome news. We must be careful and watchful, though. We have a presidential administration that is all in for green energy, no matter the cost, no matter the incredibly poor outcomes. And Maryland Gov. Moore is so excited about the possible sight of thousands of turbines on land and sea that he is even hoping to add the Chesapeake Bay to the national park system. In April, Gov. Moore tweeted: “Here’s why Maryland will become the national leader in offshore wind: ~Our 3,000 + miles of shoreline for generating wind power -Our skilled workforce powering offshore wind manufacturing in Baltimore ~Investments in clean energy from my Innovation Economy Infrastructure Act.” The only way you can come up with 3,000 miles of shoreline in Maryland is by using the shoreline of the Chesapeake Bay. I also find it interesting that it was recently announced that the world’s largest steel mill (Sparrows Point in Baltimore) will get a second life as a wind turbine factory. Our federal and state governments Continued on Page 52
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BELL RINGERS
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Today
PHOTO COURTESY DAVIS J. LANDIS SR.
The Salvation Army kicked off its 2023 Red Kettle Campaign in the Civic Center in Salisbury on Nov. 8 with the organization’s annual breakfast and 2022 award presentations. The Kiwanis Club of Ocean Pines-Ocean City and the club-sponsored Key Club at Stephen Decatur High School both received awards for first place in the Bell Ringer Civic Group. Pictured, from left, holding the awards are Kiwanians Tom Southwell, Diane Denk, Diane Sparzak and David J. Landis Sr.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
A model train rides along a track inside the Winter Train Garden display at the Ocean City branch of the Worcester County Library on 100th Street. This year’s holiday display was set to be unveiled Nov. 15 and will be up for public viewing through Jan. 5 during the library’s regular hours.
Ocean City library holiday train garden now on display (Nov. 17, 2023) The Ocean City branch of the Worcester County Library is once again featuring a Winter Train Garden for the holiday season and beyond. The display, provided from the personal collection of local resident and train enthusiast Dennis Moore, was unveiled on Nov. 15 and will be set up through Jan. 5 at the library on 100th Street during normal business hours. The library is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 9
a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Visitors of all ages can interact with the buttons of the display to activate accessories and sounds. There is also a scavenger hunt for young patrons with a chance to win a prize. For more information, contact the Ocean City branch of the library at 410-524-1818, or visit 10003 Coastal Highway in Ocean City. Facebook: Worcester County Maryland Library Instagram: worcesterlibrarymd
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Page 51 have proven over the years that there is no amount of taxpayer funds they will not happily shovel out to “green” companies with very little oversight or even any evidence that the technologies work.
Please remain watchful and pay attention and when you see or hear something, please spread the word and let your state and federal representatives know what you think about it. Carol Frazier Ocean Pines
Mail your letter to editor@oceancitytoday.net All letters are subject to editing for clarity and potentially libelous material
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Today
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CINDY HOFFMAN/OCEAN CITY TODAY
VETERANS DAY CEREMONY
Hundreds attended the Veterans Day Tribute on November 11 at the Worcester County Veterans Memorial. The Posting of Colors was conducted by the joint Color Guard American Legion Posts 123, 166 and 231, and FSD, Marine Corps League.
Honoring DJ Batman at memorial Friends of Night Time Mayor of OC will recognize Beatty for military service Nov. 22 By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer (Nov. 17, 2023) A ceremony honoring the late DJ Mike “Batman” Beatty will be held at the Worcester County Veterans Memorial in Ocean Pines on Wednesday, Nov. 22 at 2 p.m. During the ceremony, a paver will be dedicated to the iconic Ocean City DJ and Air Force veteran. Beatty joined the Air Force in 1967 and served with the 6217 Combsat Support group in Taiwan during the Vietnam War. His final duty station in 1970 took him to Ching Chuan Kang Royal Chinese Air Force Base, Taichung, Taiwan, where he performed duties as an Admin in Special Actions, and as a disc jockey for American Forces Radio. The network provides radio and TV programming to U.S. troops and members of the Department of Defense and their families while overseas. While serving, Airman Beatty also participated as the hospital liaison for “Operation Amnesty,” a program that assisted individuals with drug problems to get the aid they needed and guarantee to them no less than a medical discharge. Beatty’s love for radio began in
Ocean City as a part-time DJ on WETT radio, an AM station, in 1966. But Beatty was best known for his career as a club DJ in Ocean City, where he was known as “DJ Batman.” Generations of locals and tourists danced the night away to tunes spun by Batman in Ocean City bars for more than 40 years. “He is well known for all the work he did for local charities. If someone had a need, he was always there to help,” said Marie Gilmore, president of the Worcester County Veterans Memorial Board of Directors.
His proudest moment, his friends say, came when he was asked to deliver the keynote address at the Worcester County Veterans Memorial on Memorial Day 2015. The Worcester County Veterans Memorial was dedicated in 2005 to honor and preserve the contributions of these individuals to the nation’s security and freedom of its people. The tribute to Beatty is hosted by the Worcester County Veterans Memorial and Friends of Mike Beatty. To learn more about the memorial, visit Wocovets.org
The Ocean City Christian Ministers Association Invites Everyone To Our…
Community’s Thanksgiving Service Sunday, November 19th, 6:00pm Saint George Greek Orthodox Church, 8805 Coastal Highway Service will include…praise, worship songs, hymns, Thanksgiving testimonies and a brief message. Please bring packaged food goods, paper products, and funds for the offering, which will be used to help the needy in our community. There will be desserts & fellowship after the service. This is a great opportunity to give thanks to God. We hope you can attend. For information call 410-524-0990
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NOVEMBER 17, 2023
Ocean City Today
WORLD WAR II
Battle of Tarawa rages from Nov. 20-23, 1943 By Hon. W. Newton Jackson III Contributing Writer The Battle of Tarawa occurred over the four-day period of Nov. 20-23, 1943 as the result of the first U.S. naval offensive in the Central Pacific Ocean. It also marked the first time that U.S. Marines faced heavy Japanese resistance to an amphibious landing. In early 1943, Gen. Douglas MacArthur and his Southwest Pacific Area forces were pushing northwest from New Guinea-New Britain toward the Philippines. The U.S. high command realized, however, that another front had to be opened, first, to mount a successful invasion of the Japanese homeland, and second, to prevent another attack against the Hawaiian Islands. The new front would be located in the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean known as Micronesia (“many islands”). Although the six-month fighting in Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands had been a defeat for the enemy, the Japanese fleet was no longer tied down and could roam freely. Japan still controlled a wide swath of the Pacific, including the Micronesian island groups known as the Gilberts, Marshalls, Carolines, and Marianas. The Gilberts and Marshalls
Scout plane
lay roughly 2,400 miles southwest of the Hawaiian Islands and 1,000 miles to the southeast of the Carolines. To the north of the Carolines were the Marianas, including Saipan and Tinian, which were not to be taken until June 1944 after fierce fighting. The main Japanese fleet was based
at Truk in the Carolines. The Japanese had also constructed a series of air bases on smaller islands throughout the area. Any further allied amphibious operations from the Philippines toward Japan would be subject to enemy naval attack from those islands. Moreover, allied aerial support for an invasion ultimately to be made against the Japanese homeland would require land bases. Adm. Chester Nimitz, head of the Central Pacific Force (later called the “Fifth Fleet”), designated his chief of staff, Rear Adm. Raymond Spruance, to begin the planning. Because the Marshalls were heavily defended, the more vulnerable Gilberts located to the south were chosen as the first target. They would also prepare the relatively inexperienced Marines for the tougher battles ahead, and once taken, they could provide air bases and fleet anchorages for the invasion of the Marshalls. Reconnoitering of Tarawa began a year in advance of the contemplated invasion with aerial and submarine photography, which later proved to be inadequate. The Japanese had anticipated the attack and, with the help of forced Korean labor, had been preparing the island’s defenses for over a year. The Gilberts consisted of 13 to 16 atolls spread out over an area as large as Texas, with the largest being Tarawa. They were discovered by the Portuguese in 1606 and later named in 1788 after Thomas Gilbert, the master of an East Indiaman, which was a large sailing vessel of that era. Until December 1941 when they were seized by the Japanese, the Gilberts had been under the control of Great Britain. Some 50 years earlier, Robert Louis Stevenson had resided there and described them in
his book “In the South Seas.” In November 1943, “Operation Galvanic” commenced and was commanded by newly promoted Vice Adm. Spruance aboard his flagship, the heavy cruiser Indianapolis. According to naval doctrine, a flagship must be fast enough to keep pace with the aircraft carriers of the fleet. It must be able to operate without escorts. It must be powerful enough to defend itself, travel long distances without refueling, and have ample communications. A brand-new battleship would have fit the bill, but Spruance also knew that a flagship must get close enough to an enemy island in order to view the landings, thus making it susceptible to enemy gunfire and therefore expendable. The U.S. Navy could not afford to lose a battleship in battle, so Spruance chose the 12-yearold Indianapolis as his flagship (My father was a naval aviator aboard at the time and also a good card player. Adm. Spruance occasionally invited him to his bridge table, but I digress.) Betio Island on the southwest corner of the atoll was the targeted invasion point at Tarawa because it had a finished airstrip. Lying 80 miles north of the Equator, it comprised 290 acres and was two miles long and a half-mile wide. A week of heavy naval gunfire and aerial bombardment proved largely ineffective. The Marines landed, and Betio became the scene of ferocious fighting over the four-day period. Col. David M. Shoup oversaw the landings and, for his bravery, was later awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. In 1960, he became the 22nd Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps. Marine Lt. Alexander Bonnyman, Jr., was killed on Tarawa and was posthuContinued on Page 55
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
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Ocean City Today
OBITUARIES DOLORES STEARN NEULAND Ocean Pines Dolores Stearn Neuland (aka Dodie/Dee/GaMa), 86, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023, at Bay Health Hospital in Dover. Born in Washington DC, she was the daughter of the late Herbert Preston Stearn and Veola Frances Jones. Dee grew up in historic Potomac, with her parents, grandparents,and sister Joanie. They lived Dolores Neuland right in the heart of town. Her grandparents (Grammy and Poppy) ran the local general store in Potomac for many years. Music was always a passion for Dee as many in her family sang in the choir at Potomac United Methodist Church, which the Stearn family was
founding members of. This love of music followed her to Ocean Pines where she was a member of the choir at St. John Neumann and sang with the Pine Tones Chorus of Ocean Pines. Her love of sports came from her father who was a lifelong Washington football fan, and she loved attending games with him. She passed this love of sports onto all her daughters and grandchildren, several of whom played sports in college. She was quite proud of this. Dee raised her four daughters in College Park, with the help of her close-knit family. It was at this time that she became immersed in tennis – as she was already a wicked pingpong player. When her daughters were older, she began her next chapter of life with her second husband, Fran. His love of sailing brought to her a new
passion for life on and near the water. They spent many years sailing the waters all around the Chesapeake and beyond. Once retired, Dee and Fran settled in Kinsale, Virginia, on the water and sailed on their boat “Otiose” as much as they could. When Fran passed, Dee decided to move back to Maryland and landed in Ocean Pines following her little sister Joanie. In Ocean Pines, her tennis, paddle and anything with a racquet really took off and any day on the court, win or lose, was a great day for Dee. Dee’s greatest love was spending time with her family — whether at the beach, at the ballpark, at a swim meet, dance recital, lacrosse game, or traveling with them wherever they went. Those who will treasure their memories of her most are her sister, Joan Stearn; her four daughters, Deborah Adler, Constance Safford
(Keith), Angele Valentine (Ronald), and Janelle Foster (Kevin); grandchildren Sarah (Sean), Janelle (Gabriel), Ryan, Julia, Magdalena, and Christina; and four great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Francis Neuland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, Nov. 17, at St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Ocean Pines. Interment will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 18, at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Washington D.C. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via burbagefuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St John Neumann Choir or the Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School at St. John Neumann. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home.
were no tide tables for Betio, and unexpectedly low tides and sharp coral on the sea bottom hampered the first landings, leaving the already too few amphtrac landing craft exposed to enemy gunfire. Many Marines had to wade ashore through chest-deep water. Portable radios became inoperative. Other Marines left their landing craft too
soon and drowned in deeper water. My father, LTJG Grade W. Newton Jackson Jr., aboard the Indianapolis played a peripheral role in the battle. His mission was to fly over Betio and locate Japanese troops and gun emplacements. His single-engine Kingfisher float plane would be catapulted off the Indianapolis to begin each flight. Once completed, he would land
next to the ship and be lifted up by a crane for debriefing and refueling. One day, after his last reconnaissance flight, he took off his parachute pack and found a Japanese bullet in it. He was not even aware that the enemy had shot at his plane. My mother later put the smashed bullet on a charm bracelet. Next week: Cairo Conference
WORLD WAR II Continued from Page 54 mously awarded a Congressional Medal of Honor in 1947 for his bravery. Samuel Eliot Morison in Volume VII of his “History of United States Naval Operations in World War II” stated that when the 76-hour battle had concluded 4,700 Japanese soldiers were dead, while U.S. deaths totaled 1,001 and those wounded in action totaled 2,101. Another commentator wrote that as many Marines were killed-in-action during the 76 hours of Tarawa as were killed over a six-month period on Guadalcanal the year before. Because the casualties were so high, some uninformed critics likened the landing on Tarawa to the Charge of the Light Brigade in the 1854 Crimean War, but they failed to recognize the strategic importance of capturing the Gilberts before the Marshalls. Why were the casualties so high? First, as expected, the Japanese fought to the death; few surrendered. Second, the island had the most heavily fortified defenses yet encountered in the war. Enemy gun positions were no more than 300 yards from the landing beach. The Marines were pinned down for hours. Yard for yard, it was said that the resistance proved to be heavier than that encountered on Iwo Jima in 1945. Third, massive U.S. bombardment preceding the landing had proven largely ineffective because the enemy was so well dug-in with pillboxes, bunkers, trenches, barbed wire, coconut log walls, and bombproof shelters. Close-range naval gunfire was also ineffective because of its trajectory over a low-lying, flat island. Fourth, heavy sea turbulence delayed the transfer of Marines from the offshore ships to the landing craft, allowing Japanese gunners on the island to fire on them. Fifth, there
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PHOTOS BY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Wide receiver Dalontae Henry stands on guard as fellow wide reciever Davin Chandler runs away from a defender, and running back Brooks Waters prepares to help him out.
Seahawks declaw Centreville Lions at state tourney By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer (Nov. 17, 2023) The crowd at last Friday’s Maryland State Football Tournament Round 3 contest featuring the Queen Anne’s County Lions against the Stephen Decatur Seahawks in Berlin saw the home team declaw the Lions of Centerville, 41-7. The game was part of the Maryland High School Football Playoff bracket MPSSAA-2A tournament, and Decatur has looked superior so far. Both teams showed their talents in a hard-fought scoreless first quarter. Then, with 10:10 left in the second quarter, senior quarterback Brycen Coleman took the QB keeper in for the game’s first touchdown. Senior Brogan Eastlack booted it between the uprights and Stephen Decatur took a 7-0 lead. From there the game’s tempo took off. Between the 5:32-minute mark and end of the first half Seahawk offenses got two more touchdowns and their extra points for a 28-0 halftime Seahawks lead. At the 1:20 minutes left in the second quarter, junior Seahawk Amarian Manuel scored a touchdown and Eastlack kicked the extra point. Then, suddenly, with 4: 44- minutes remaining in the third quarter,
PHOTOS BY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Quarterback Brycen Coleman hands the ball off to wide receiver Amarian Manuel.
the Lions woke up and showed some life with a touchdown of their own. Their point-after kick was good but, they trailed Stephen Decatur 28-7. The seemingly unstoppable Seahawk offense scored again near the end of the third quarter to put the score at 35-7, only to score again mid-
way through the fourth for the 41-7 victory. “We had to battle through some adversity and didn’t get a great start, but it’s not where you start, it’s how you finish that counts,” said Seahawks Coach Jake Coleman. “We’re hoping for an even bigger crowd next week ... we really need it,” he added.
The win assures the Seahawks a tournament opponent today (Nov.17) “We play Wilde Lake High School here next Friday, start time 6 p.m. I’m hoping for a larger crowd then,” Coach Coleman said, adding, “The kids did an amazing job tonight, I’m so proud of the kids tonight.”
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PHOTO BY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Quarterback Brycen Coleman shakes off defenders with help from several teammates as he runs toward the end zone.
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
SURF CLUB SUCCESS The Ocean City Surf Club wrapped up another successful year with the group’s Surf Into Integrity program at Stephen Decatur Middle School. The nine-week course teaches children life lessons in the classroom and surf lessons in the ocean. Pictured are Surf Into Integrity students, instructors, assistant instructors and officers with members of the Ocean City Beach Patrol.
SURF REPORT
Surfing able to take on practically any form By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer (Nov. 17, 2023) Just the other day I saw a car bumper sticker which read, “you may love (the word love was portrayed by a heart symbol) your longboard but I don’t.” Obviously whoever the person was whose car this sticker was attached to had a certain attitude, viewpoint, opinion, even philosophy regarding longboards. We’re talking a specific type of surfboard, generally at least 7-6 to 8 feet in length and mostly longer. Longboards will also carry a certain amount of width, generally toward the nose, plus a consideration for thickness, as in more as opposed to less.
Another obvious factor in this discussion would have to be that the owner of this particular bumper stickered vehicle would most certainly be a shortboard aficionado. Now none of the above is of any great consequence except for a phrase that I always like to refer to. “Surfing is what it is to you.” Quite simple, wouldn’t you say? Simple in that surfing becomes such an individual entity, unlike a team sport. Recently I read an article regarding surfing but more specifically targeted to foils. A foil is a relatively new idea/concept. Similar to surfboard fins, a foil becomes an attachment, one which can attach to various types of boards. One way to describe it would be “a wing on the water.” At a relatively slow speed the foil will rise up on the water. It can become valid in almost
any size wave from small to big. The point of this article/report/column is that surfing can take almost any form even considering no board at all as in bodysurfing. It can be thought of in various other terms as in wave riding or simply riding a wave. So let’s consider some different forms or ways that a wave can be ridden. Bodyboarding is a basic form of wave riding and can be an excellent introduction to surfing, although for some it’s all they care to do and they stick with it. Originally invented by Tom Morey, it was called a boogieboard. If used with swim fins the wave riding experience becomes greatly enhanced. Traditional stand-up surfing can take many forms, mainly in different lengths and shapes of boards, and
materials that surfboards are made of. Short, long and in between, surfboards are many and varied. Stand Up Paddle boards, or SUPs as they are known, are another way that a wave can be ridden. The main difference is that a paddle is used to catch the wave and can also be a factor in maneuvering on the wave. Once again a foil is probably the latest and most innovative way to ride a wave. I’ve seen film or video footage of a foil board ridden on open ocean swells, like a magic carpet ride. These are waves that don’t really break as they would closer to a shoreline, but can be a large factor in forward propulsion regarding any oceangoing board or vessel. — Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City
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