OC Today WWW.OCEANCITYTODAY.COM
DECEMBER 1, 2023
SERVING NORTHERN WORCESTER COUNTY
CHRISTMAS OCEAN CITY PARADE
Holiday event set 11 a.m., Sat., and runs from Old Landing Road to 120th Street – Page 27
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Student book access debate goes on School board sees options, but none completely satisfy all parties to discussion By Hunter Hine Staff Writer (Dec. 1, 2023) With calls coming in objecting to the presence of certain books in school libraries, members of the Worcester County Board of Education last Tuesday floated the idea of using some of their shelves to create
“older-teen” sections that would limit younger students’ access. Near the end of the board meeting, board member Jon Andes (and former Worcester schools superintendent) proposed that staff might be able to create a system where the school system’s media specialists curate an older-teen collection that students would have access to with a parent’s permission. Andes asked the board members to consider his suggestion before the board’s December meet-
ing. “Please, board and staff, consider that type of policy to implement and try it for two years and see if it works out, then whatever board exists then can renew or adjust it, but we need two years to test it and see if it works,” Andes said. Denise Shorts, chief academic officer for grades PreK - eight, asked members to look over the school system’s book-review-procedure manual and suggested that school content ex-
perts could appear before the board at the next meeting. Board member Elaina McComas said county schools already have an opt-out system that allows parents to restrict what their children can check out from school libraries. She said the opt-in system seems much easier. The school libraries’ check-out and catalog system could be used to flag the books a student’s parent or guardian has not authorized them to See VARYING Page 4
City saves more for rainy day(s) With millions in extra cash, City Council builds cushion against uncertain future
HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY
BUILDING UP
Construction crews work on the Ocean City Fire Department’s new Fire Station 3 in front of the public safety complex on 65th Street. The project broke ground in March and is on track for completion at the end of next summer. See story on page 10.
By Mallory Panuska Managing Editor (Dec. 1, 2023) From padding the pension fund to paying for a sizable jump in radio maintenance fees, a chunk of Ocean City’s Fiscal Year 2023 reserves will be used to ensure the resort’s financial situation stays healthy for the foreseeable future. “We believe these [recommendations] are the prudent course of action,” City Manager Terry McGean said Tuesday during a City Council work session, referring to a series of suggestions for nearly $7 million in unassigned funds. “Ocean City is a tourist-based economy,” he continued. “And just as our business community has learned, when times are good, we should save for the occasion when times are bad.” Upon McGean’s request, City Council members unanimously voted See UNEXPECTED Page 3
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DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today
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Ocean City Today
PHOTOS COURTESY TOWN OF OCEAN CITY
A pie chart shows the city’s unassigned fund balance, including nearly $10 million in unassigned revenues, before council members voted to distribute nearly $7 million of it to reserves and other funds.
A pie chart shows the city fund balance after council members voted to distribute nearly $7 million in unassigned revenues to reserves and other funds.
Unexpected revenue helps in uncertain times Continued from Page 1 to add $2.5 million to the pension reserve fund, $400,000 to salary reserves for anticipated cost-of-living adjustments, $3 million to the capital reserve fund to cover upcoming highpriority infrastructure projects, $350,000 to the risk retention fund to set off liability claims, and about $684,000 to the vehicle trust fund to cover impending increases in radio maintenance fees in Fiscal Years 2025 and 2026. During a presentation to council members in mid-November, Finance Director Chuck Bireley said the city’s unassigned fund balance went from 30.4 percent of the general fund expenses in fiscal 2022 to 32.5 percent in fiscal 2023. The change reflected about $6.1 million in unexpected revenue, which McGean said Tuesday came from
higher-than-expected room taxes, interest on investments, and lower-thanexpected public safety supplies and equipment costs. The money was added to the city’s existing unassigned fund balance, which is basically leftover cash that has not been assigned a use. In the financial report presented last month, the city’s total fund balance for last fiscal year came out to more than $31.67 million. Of the total, 17 percent, which came out to more than $18.38 million, is required to be set aside in a reserve fund. Council members changed the requirement from 15 to 17 percent during budget talks last year and McGean said Tuesday that staff are happy with the amount. Other allocations for the balance consisted of nearly $800,000 for the Ocean City Development Corporation’s parking fund, $1.5 million to the
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capital reserve fund for projects, and a little over a million for a fire apparatus. With that, a total nearly $10 million in unassigned funds were left, which prompted McGean’s recommendations for all but a little more than $3 million. He said the decision to invest money in areas that could see increases in expenses was smart, as it provides a cushion if the resort’s financial situation changes.
“We are currently living in uncertain times,” McGean said. “Inflation remains a problem and market returns continue to negatively affect the pension funds. Our increased reliance on variable revenue sources cannot be ignored. We are already seeing a decline in some of these revenues compared to FY 23. And all it takes is a few rainy weekends to put us in the red.” See OC’s Page 4
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DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today
Varying opinions over opt-in teen book policy Continued from Page 1 read, said board member William Buchanan. Before Andes’ suggestion, board member Katie Addis proposed a change to school policy that would allow all Worcester County residents to file formal complaints about books in schools, rather than only parents of students. The definition of “complainants” in the school policy section that covers library and media procedures for challenged books only includes parents, guardians, students or Worcester County Public Schools employees, Addis said. “With the current definition of ‘complainant’ we are leaving out the largest group in our county who needs to have a voice and that’s the stakeholders of Worcester County,” Addis said. Addis made a motion to add “residents of Worcester County” to the definition of “complainant,” but the board decided to table the motion until a later meeting so members had time to think about the revision. Addis raised the suggestion following a legal update from the school system’s attorney Heather Stansbury regarding past comments from public speakers who suggested that Maryland’s criminal law could apply to sexually explicit books in schools. During the public comments of previous school board meetings, and at the earlier part of the Nov. 21 meeting, speakers claimed that a Maryland law that criminalizes the display of obscene material to minors might apply to books depicting what they consider sexually explicit content in schools. Stansbury said the board asked her to examine two sections of Maryland’s criminal law article that covered adult sexual displays to minors and the sale or display of obscene items to minors. She said that based on her analysis, the two statutes are not relevant to the consideration of taking books out of school libraries. Stansbury said the best practice is to have a book policy for the school
HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY
The Worcester County Board of Education floated an idea for a new system to give parents control over what books their children check out in school. Pictured is “All Boys Aren’t Blue” by George M. Johnson, posed on a shelf at the Ocean Pines Public Library. It’s one book that some residents have asked the board to remove from schools.
system and follow it, and that the ultimate decision to remove a book falls on the board of education. “When making those considerations, they must consider and remember the case law, that it does exist absent of a state law on this specific subject,” Stansbury said. “We must remember the state law, or the federal, relevant to the removal of books.” Stansbury said the board asked for her legal analysis of the issue many months ago, and that it was not a response to concerns about books that were discussed earlier in the meeting. Pat Barbely, a resident who has raised concerns about “sexually explicit” books in schools at previous board meetings, said at last Tuesday’s meeting that the book “All Boys Aren’t Blue,” by George M. Johnson, graphically details incest, sexual assault and masturbation. Barbely accused the book of normalizing and minimizing things like rape. “All Boys Aren’t Blue,” is a memoir of the author’s childhood into his early adult years, according to Goodreads.com. “The child is then in an incestuous
relationship with his cousin, which propels him into numerous sexual encounters, all of which is graphically detailed in the book,” Barbely said. County resident Kate McCloskey said she has counted over 65 books in school libraries with “sexually explicit” content. “I’m talking hard-core sexually explicit material. Many of us are not wanting to stand for this,” McCloskey said. Grant Helvey, of Ocean Pines, said it’s perfectly okay to keep all books in public libraries and to keep any books in your home, but it’s not okay to put any book in school libraries. “You do not have a right to provide access for other people’s children for purposes of indoctrination. That’s their family business,” Helvey said Lorraine Barrett, of Girdletree, told the board that one book, called “The V-Word,” was available in Snow Hill Middle School. Barrett said she had planned on reading from the book at the meeting to make a point, but with depictions of things like oral sex, she thought it would be too inappropriate for the meeting. (The county school system’s coor-
dinator of public information, Carrie Sterrs, disputed that assertion on Wednesday, saying in an email, “The V-Word” is not and has never been on the shelves at Snow Hill Middle School.”). Tom Simon, of Berlin, rebutted the calls to remove books, asking the school board to listen to “the actual parents of students in schools” and not the “vocal minority.” “I am concerned with the non-inclusive agendas being pushed at these meetings by members of the public. The only people trying to indoctrinate our kids are people that are spouting this hateful rhetoric,” Simon said. The final person to speak during public comments was Treston Melvin, the board of education student representative for Pocomoke High School. Melvin said they were “sick and tired” of hearing people come to speak about indoctrination in schools and urged the board of education to fight for students. Melvin said some of the speakers were hateful, and do not want what is best for the students. “I am a student and I am a human, and I was sexually assaulted at 15 years old, and ‘All Boys Aren’t Blue’ — that book, to see someone who was like me — that saved my life,” Melvin said.
OC’s bond rating recently went up Continued from Page 3 McGean also said the recommendations he made for the money helps keep the city’s bond rating up. Credit rating agency Moody’s Investors Service recently increased the rating from Aa2 to Aa1, which McGean said was based primarily on the amount of money in reserves. “A decline in reserves could lead to credit downgrade,” he explained. “A healthy bond rating reduces our borrowing costs and allows us to invest more in our infrastructure instead of paying higher interest rates.”
DECEMBER 1, 2023
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Ocean City Today
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#1 LISTING AGENT FOR COLDWELL BANKER REALTY MID ATLANTIC REGION MID-TOWN 3BR/3.5 BA RIVENDELL CONDOMINIUM with WATER VIEWS! Stunning three-bedroom 3.5 bath condo at the Rivendell hits the market! This beautiful condo is being sold furnished and it's ready for your immediate enjoyment. You’ll be mesmerized by the waterfront views. You can actually watch both the sunrise and the sunset without ever leaving this condo. The kitchen is sure to delight 121 81ST STREET UNIT 706 the chef in your family with its OCEAN CITY • $815,000 granite countertops, custom cabinets and plenty of workspace. Off the kitchen is the family room and dining area where you will enjoy family meals and make memories that last a lifetime. The family room is great for entertaining and has a gas fireplace for chilly times in fall and winter. There’s also a wet bar for relaxing and having cocktails with friends. You can see the Ocean and Bay from the primary bedroom suite and the primary bath is luxurious with a tile Jacuzzi tub, shower and double vanities. The other two bedrooms are spacious as well and each have their own en suite bathroom. There is also a half bath off the family room. There’s a separate laundry room with washer and dryer and plenty of storage. Privacy is ensured with good separation between the primary bedroom and the other two bedrooms. There are large balconies where you can enjoy your morning coffee and a cold drink in the evening. The Rivendell has an indoor pool, outdoor pool and a fitness center, and the Hobbit restaurant is located in the building as well. This condo is located in Midtown on 81st St. and there is a traffic light at the intersection so crossing the street is very easy. There are plenty of stores, restaurants and shops in the area. There is a parking garage and secure access to the building. Come take a look today and make this beautiful property yours. This is a non-rental building so you will make friends and know your neighbors. MLS MDWO2017698
WATERFRONT WITH BOAT SLIP 2.03 ACRES! Breathtaking 5BR/4.5BA waterfront estate on 2+ acres is coming soon! If you are looking for an incredible home on a beautiful piece of property with breathtaking views overlooking Assateague Island, look no further. This home boasts 6,482 sq.ft. of luxury. The family room over11602 S. HILLS DRIVE • BERLIN MD looks the water with $1,674,900 soaring ceilings and a beautiful custom fireplace. The chef's kitchen is amazing, with lots of room for prepping food and enjoying home cooked meals, and the spacious breakfast area is off the kitchen and provides plenty of room for family and friends. The kitchen has lovely granite countertops, a butler's pantry, mini bar, and plenty of cabinets for storage. This home also has a formal dining room and formal living room, perfect gathering space for everyone to enjoy for years to come. The large primary bedroom suite is on the first floor with beautiful views overlooking the water. There are hardwood floors throughout the home. On the second floor you will find four additional spacious bedrooms and three baths, and a home theater/game room. There is also an additional room over the garage with a full bath. Off the back of the home there is a 40'x12' brick patio facing the water, which is perfect for outdoor dining and grilling. This home also comes with a Community Dock area with assigned boat slips. Slip number three is the owners. If you’re tired of the hustle and bustle, but you still want to be close to Ocean City, golf courses, and everything Assateague Island has to offer, this is the perfect home for you. Come take a tour today, put your finishing touches on it, and turn your dream of owning a Waterfront estate into reality. Your family and friends are sure to make memories that last a lifetime here. Come see for yourself. Schedule your showing today and consider making this dream home yours. MLS MDWO2015282
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 foyer with marble flooring greets you as you 733 BRADLEY ROAD • OCEAN CITY enter with your eyes drawn to the $3,200,000 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
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 screened304 S. HERON GULL COURT in porch is a deck with a barbecue grill for crab OCEAN CITY • $1,499,900 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
OCEAN MID-TOWN CONDO 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 chance to own a slice of Ocean City 7704 COASTAL HWY #102 and make memories that will last a OCEAN CITY • $310,000 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 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 1 66TH ST UNIT 101 is one of the best values at the beach - fully furnished and OCEAN CITY • $499,900 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
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 WATERFRONT DREAM HOME
310 S. HERON GULL CT OCEAN CITY • $2,499,900 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
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
SINGLE FAMILY HOME
4111 FIESTA RD OCEAN CITY • $739,900 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 stainlesssteel 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
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
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 RD 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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DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today
Mini-golf course advances; parking code discussed By Hunter Hine Staff Writer (Dec. 1, 2023) The Ocean City Planning Commission recommended a conditional use application for a proposed mini-golf course to the City Council and received briefing on the council’s rejection of their proposed parking amendments at the commission’s meeting last Tuesday. The owner of the Embers Island mini-golf course on 23rd Street received favorable approval from the planning commission for a conditional use application to build a new course at the Montego Bay Shopping Center near 128th Street. Jay Taustin, who also owns the Embers Restaurant next to his current mini-golf course, is proposing to build the 18-hole course on an empty lot in the shopping center’s parking area, which is zoned as a SC-1 Shopping Center district. Now the conditional use application will go to the Ocean City Council for a vote, and, if passed, Taustin will return to the planning commission for site plan approval. Planning staff recommended that commissioners grant approval for the See PLANNING Page 7
The Ocean City Planning Commission gave favorable approval to a conditional use application for an 18-hole mini-golf course that’s proposed at the Montego Bay Shopping Center. Pictured are tentative plans for the course’s layout. PHOTO COURTESY FISHER ARCHITECTURE
FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
The Ocean City Life-Saving Museum on the Boardwalk near the inlet.
Holiday open house on Sunday (Dec. 1, 2023) The Ocean City Life Saving-Station Museum is hosting its annual Holiday Open House this Sunday. According to a news release, the free event is set from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Dec. 3, at the museum at 813 S. Atlantic Ave. downtown. There will be a variety of activities throughout the day to get local families in the holiday spirit. From 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., local author Mermaid Tasha will be hosting a book signing and reading. Two of her books will be available to buy
from the museum store. From 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., musical group The Jolly Tars will be performing sea shanties and sailor lore. A craft table will also be set up for attendees to make free sand ornaments and samples of sweet snacks will be available. Attendees can also hunt for artifacts throughout the museum in the Artifact Scavenger Hunt. The store will be offering 20 percent off entire purchases as well. More information can be found on the museum’s website, ocmuseum.org.
DECEMBER 1, 2023
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Ocean City Today
Planning comm. upset with code amendment rejection to lighting as well. Continued from Page 6 proposed project and send it to the Taustin said in all of his 22 years council. running the existing 23rd Street Em“It is a really good entertainment bers course, he has had no comvenue and [attracts] lots of tourists plaints regarding noise or lighting, and even many of the locals,” said and has had people tell him the Zoning Administrator Kay Gordy. course lighting is actually too dim. Gordy said the lot is on the West Former Ocean City zoning adminside of Coastal Highway and sits just istrator Blaine Smith said that besouth of the Ocean City fire station cause the site was once the location of and the Montego Bay community. a gas station, water, sewer and elecAcross Coastal Highway is an R3-A tricity services are already available. moderate residential zoning district, Smith added that with the Montego Gordy said. Bay neighborhood pretty much builtAttorney Joseph Moore, of the out, along with the rest of the town, Ocean City firm Williams, Moore, there shouldn’t be a concern about Shockley and Harrison, represented population changes around the course. Taustin. Moore said the fire station “You might say the town has maserves as a buffer between the pro- tured,” Smith said. posed course and residences to the As for the briefing on parking North, and a bank buffers the course changes, City Planner Bill Neville told to the south. Coastal Highway also planning commission members that shields residential buildings on the the city council voted to send a set of east side, he said. parking code The shopping amendments back center has 485 “They’re in the pocket of the to the planning parking spaces but commission. only requires 361, builders and developers and the The council real estate agents.” Gordy said, giving members felt that the mini-golf course Commissioner Palmer Gillis the planning coma surplus to use for mission had sent its required parkthem a version of ing. Taustin’s lease with the shopping the garage-parking code amendcenter includes parking, she said. ments that didn’t align with discusThe lot where Taustin proposes to sions commissioners and council build the course formerly contained a members had at a joint meeting in gas station, which was demolished in December 2022, Neville said. 2020. Lauren White, an architect The recent set of parking amendfrom Fisher Architecture, which is ments would’ve increased the minidesigning the course, said a Maryland mum size of garage parking spaces on Department of the Environment re- lots over 50 feet wide, set requireport confirmed that the gas tanks ments for 5-foot-recessed garage were removed from the site. aprons and added a line that proMoore said Fisher Architecture is hibits garages from being used for “very familiar” with both mini-golf general storage. course design and Ocean City. The Neville said the council is now refirm designed Taustin’s Embers Is- questing that commissioners limit land course, he said. their recommended code changes to Part of the plans include adding an parking space dimensions only. extra three feet of width to the sideThe commission could schedule walk in front of the course along further discussions for a later meetCoastal Highway, White said. Plan- ing, Neville said. ners also proposed building a side“This is now two separate commiswalk on the south side of the course sions more or less that have sent simthat leads to the course’s concessions ilar recommendations to the town and check-in area. council, and they keep throwing it Moore added that a bus stop situ- back at us,” said commissioner ated in front of the proposed course Palmer Gillis. “Can they tell us what could accommodate visitors without they want us to do?” cars, and Taustin plans to add bike Neville encouraged Palmer not to racks as well. give up on the amendments, saying Taustin said that they are still de- the planning commissioners have the ciding on designs for the course lay- option to not forward recommendaout, and Moore described it as a tions, change only the dimensions or work-in-progress. make entirely new amendments. The conditional use application re“They’re in the pocket of the quires that Taustin satisfy a list of builders and developers and the real special conditions, including lighting estate agents,” Gillis said of the counand sound control. Taustin told com- cil members. missioners that he has retained the Neville said the City Manager services of an experienced, capable Terry McGean has suggested doing and imaginative golf-course designer, another joint-meeting between the and will be adding a theme develop- commission and council at the end of ment company to give consideration January.
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Ocean City Today
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DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today
MALLORY PANUSKA/OCEAN CITY TODAY
A scooter rider drives north up Coastal Highway near 45th Street.
OC scooter rental business reports positive data for ‘23 By Mallory Panuska Managing Editor (Dec. 1, 2023) The one business owner licensed to rent small mobility devices in Ocean City can continue operating next summer under the same parameters as this year after a decrease in collisions and cooperation with a series of regulations. At a work session Tuesday, City Manager Terry McGean and Police Chief Ross Buzzuro presented data that shows a decrease in the number of collisions involving rented electric scooters, Segways and other similar vehicles over the summer. They also reported that the busi-
ness owner, Cycle City Owner Elias Zacharopoulos, has followed a series of requested rules and collected data regarding his rented vehicles to a satisfactory matter. “Everything has been in order and, like I said, the data reflects that downward trend,” Buzzuro said of numbers that showed only three Cycle City-rented vehicles were involved in the total 20 small mobility vehicles wrecks and collisions reported this year. McGean said the numbers also showed that at least one of the three wrecks was not the fault of the See SMALL Page 10
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Ocean City Today
DECEMBER 1, 2023
New Fire Station 3 progressing at 65th St. Crews working through cool weather, project completion set for late next summer By Salena Chaudhry Contributing Writer (Dec. 1, 2023) As autumn leaves scatter and the weather cools, Ocean City’s new Fire Station 3 on 65th Street is steadily taking shape. Construction of the 23,500 square-foot building, which will replace the existing midtown station on 74th Street with larger and more modern living and work spaces, has been visibly taking shape along Coastal Highway in front of the public safety complex for months. The project broke ground in March with a $10.6 million price tag and continues as crews diligently ex-
pand the block wall on the south side and simultaneously incorporate extra steel beams into the structure. “The apparatus bay floors have been poured, walls on the north side of the building are up, and progress has started on the south end,” Ryan Whittington, the community engagement officer for the department, said of the project. As winter approaches, Whittington said contractors are working diligently to expedite construction by adding essential roofing. Having the strategic approach not only ensures the project stays on schedule but also highlights the dedication of the construction team in recognizing weather-related challenges. Regardless of the outside conditions, he said crews are working diligently to meet project deadlines.
The anticipated move-in date is expected to be “late summer of 2024, around August or September,” Whittington said. The target provides a tangible timeline, creating anticipation for the completion that officials have said will enhance local emergency services. The main concern of the 74th Street station was primarily centered around the safety of personnel, mainly due to confined spaces. Department officials said conditions posed risks to the wellbeing of the firefighters and EMS providers. They said moving the station nine blocks south will improve response times as well. The new facility will also have a “state-of-the-art decontamination area to help prevent cancer,” according to the plans. It will be equipped to handle storms, inclement weather and other man-made or natural disasters that may require more staff, such as from other public safety agencies, or the national guard, Whittington said. The new building will include egress stairs and a mezzanine, which Whittington explained will “allow firefighters to practice training from an elevated position.” The enhancements will grow along with community needs and serve for many years. As the station takes shape, Whittington and department staff expect it will balance to meet residents’ needs, not only as a functional facility but as a hub that helps foster community engagement and
support. Community members and various partnership organizations have also provided support for Fire Station 3. “We are very thankful to the Robert I. Schattner Foundation and the Bresler Family, who have generously agreed to a $75,000 matching grant,” Whittington said. The Bresler Family and Schattner Foundation will match community donors’ donations dollar-for-dollar. The Ocean City Fire Department is also thanking community members by offering an opportunity to buy legacy stones, which will be placed in the new station. The custom bricks can serve as memorials, and honor individuals or family members. And while the project is fully underway now, the road to approval was not a smooth one. Council members and department officials experienced significant sticker shock in September 2021 when cost estimates for a larger, more elaborate station came in more than $7 million over budget. After some tweaks to the plans, which included removing an employee housing element, staff were able to whittle the cost down some. However it was still not enough for three council members — Council President Matt James and Councilmen Peter Buas and John Gehrig — who voted against the construction contract and funding plan. The plans ultimately passed 4-3, paving the way for the project underway now.
Small mobility device ban for rentals no longer wanted Continued from Page 9 scooter rider. Zacharopoulos has complied as well with all of a series of recommendations members of a work group came up with at the beginning of the year when talk of banning rental of the vehicles altogether came up. The work was made up of McGean and members of the council and police department. The requirements included keeping accident and incident logs, not increasing inventory or hours of operation, not renting vehicles after sunset, distributing maps showing areas restricted to the rented vehicles, increasing deposit amounts, and raising age requirements for certain riders. Last winter, Councilman Will Savage called for a full ban on all rented vehicles in the name of safety and quality of life. He and other council members contended that small vehicles, such as electric scooters, scoot coupes, electric bicycles, mopeds, hoverboards, one-wheels and the like
are dangerous when driven by inexperienced drivers renting them on vacation, and wreak havoc in residential neighborhoods. Savage said Tuesday that he was happy with the data from the summer and Zacharopoulos’ efforts, and believes that a full ban is no longer necessary. “We certainly eliminated 90 percent of the problem,” he said. “It’s definitely gotten better. The commercial operation of renting the scooters has gotten better from spilling into the residential neighborhoods.” Council members ultimately unanimously voted, upon recommendation from McGean, to allow Zacharopoulos to continue operating his business, and to keep monitoring the rental of small mobility devices and reporting the data. “Last year there was talk of eliminating them altogether,” McGean said of the vehicles before the vote. “Given the progress that’s been made the staff would not recommend that.”
DECEMBER 1, 2023
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Ocean City Today
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DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today
Wor. Commissioners add Buckingham to CIP By Hunter Hine Staff Writer (Dec. 1, 2023) The Worcester County Commissioners added a planning request for Buckingham Elementary School’s replacement project to the county’s overall capital improvement plan with a unanimous vote at their meeting last Tuesday. Revised funding estimates for Buckingham Elementary’s reconstruction were part of the Worcester County Public Schools’ 2025 capital improvement plan, which also included infrastructure upgrades for other county schools. The school systems improvement plan will now become part of the county’s draft of its 2025 improvement plan. The commissioner’s approval of the school system’s capital improvement plan, “as a planning document,” for the Buckingham project was due to Maryland’s Interagency Commission on School Construction (IAC) on Nov. 30, school Superintendent Lou Taylor said at the meeting. Part of the school system’s improvement plan are a planning request and a request for state design funding for Buckingham Elementary, which are two different requests, said School Facilities Planner Joe Price in an email. “Each year, as part of the CIP (capital improvement plan) process, the
state requires a letter from the County Commissioners stating that the commissioners have reviewed and approved the CIP as a planning document. The commissioners are not committing to funding any projects with their approval of the CIP,” Price said in an email. “We will request their funding commitment when we present bids for the Buckingham project.” At an Oct. 23 meeting between IAC leaders, county school officials and State Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38), the IAC agreed to reexamine its previous decision to not provide any funding for Buckingham’s replacement, Taylor said. In January, the state agency denied an initial funding request for Buckingham’s replacement, which was part of the school system’s 2024 improvement plan. The IAC cited 641 available classroom seats in Showell Elementary, Berlin Intermediate and Ocean City Elementary schools as its reason not to fund Buckingham. Officials from the state school-construction agency asked the school board to revise its fiscal year 2025 capital improvement program to include planning and design funding requests for the Buckingham project, Taylor said. The IAC scheduled a hearing for Dec. 14 to decide on preliminary ap-
The Worcester County Commissioners approved a planning request and a design funding request for the Buckingham Elementary replacement project as part of the Worcester County Public Schools Capital Improvement Plan. Pictured is the entrance area to the school in Berlin. HUNTER HINE/ OCEAN CITY TODAY
proval of the school system’s improvement plan funding, Taylor said. If the IAC approves the school system’s Fiscal Year 2025 capital improvement plan request it only be for planning and/or design funding, Price said in an email. WCPS will ask for construction funding in a future improvement plan, he said. “We anticipate information regarding state funding of the Buckingham project within two weeks of that hearing, and as soon as I get that information you will hear from me,” Taylor told the commissioners. IAC officials have made no promises to reverse their original decision to fund zero dollars, but have only agreed to take another look at the request.
Also included in the school systems 2025 improvement plan are roof replacement projects for Snow Hill Middle School and Cedar Chapel Special School, which are physically connected, as well as improvements on Pocomoke Elementary School and Worcester Technical High School. “The CIP as you know is a forwardthinking or forward-looking document, and we have identified future projects,” Taylor said. Before approving a draft of the county’s overall capital improvement plan at the commissioner’s Nov. 7 meeting, the commissioners removed the school’s improvement plan from the overall county plan at the school See STATE Page 14
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DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today
Berlin Christmas parade set Dec. 7, crowds expected
FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
People wave to crowds from a float at a past Berlin Christmas Parade. This year’s event is set for next Thursday.
By Cindy Hoffman Staff Writer (Dec. 1, 2023) Coming on the heels of the insanely popular Ice Ice Berlin event on Friday night is the Christmas Parade, set 7-9 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 7. Santa will be riding high in a Berlin fire engine as he leads the parade, which will include participants from a variety of schools, marching bands, fire departments, local businesses, nonprofits and car clubs, said Ivy Wells, the director of economic and community development for the Town of Berlin. DJ Big Al Reno will emcee the event from a stage near the Taylor House Museum. The parade starts at The Berlin Welcome Center and proceeds north to the Berlin Fire Company. The judging stand is on West/Baker Street. Veterans of the event know to expect big crowds, similar to Ice Ice Berlin, and Wells anticipates about 5,000 people will attend the parade. Turnout for Ice Ice Berlin was far beyond that of any other year, Wells said, with some stores having to institute a one-in, one-out policy to manage the crowd sizes in their shops. While most stores will not be open See MAIN Page 15
State board to vote on funding Continued from Page 12 board’s request. Taylor told board members at a special meeting on Nov. 9 that they pulled the school’s improvement plan ahead of the Nov. 7 commissioners vote so board members could vote on the revised Buckingham figures first. The school board approved funding revisions to Buckingham’s replacement project at the special meeting and resubmitted the capital improvement program to be heard at the recent commissioners meeting. The Buckingham replacement project is estimated to cost $55.9 million, with $50 million coming from local contributions and $5.9 million requested from the state, according to revised funding summaries in the school system’s improvement plan. Prior to the commissioners’ approval on last Tuesday, Commissioner Caryn Abbott said Pocomoke Middle School doesn’t have HVAC in its gym. Abbott asked Taylor if the school board could find out how many middle schools don’t have air conditioning or heating. Taylor told Abbott that the board could look into the issue and calculate the price to add HVAC to schools that don’t have it.
DECEMBER 1, 2023
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Ocean City Today
County rec and parks opts to take larger role in fair By Hunter Hine Staff Writer (Dec. 1, 2023) Staff from the Worcester County Department of Recreation and Parks will become more involved in organizing the county fair next year, with the intention of taking the lead role of coordinating the event in years to come. County Parks and Rec Director Kelly Rados told county commissioners last Tuesday that the Worcester County Fair stands to benefit from more county support. Rados proposed that county staff join the current fair board and split the 2024 fair planning work 50/50, with rec and parks likely handling the logistics and operations. Then in the future, the county would phase into the premier authority over the fair. “Our department is experienced and has success with our internal home-grown special events, and I do feel we could grow this event provided we have the right support and partnerships in place,” Rados said. A memo from Rados said plans for the fair include bringing in more vendors, live entertainment, 4-H involvement and family activities, as well as increases in marketing and community involvement and in the number of partners and sponsors. The commissioners agreed to enter into the partnership provided that rec and parks could determine if the date and location of the already-set 2024 fair could be changed. See TALK Page 18
PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF RECREATION AND PARKS
The Worcester County Department of Recreation and Parks will be getting more involved with planning the county fair this year with plans to take over the event in years to come. Pictured are vendors at the 2023 county fair.
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Main Street will close 5-10 p.m. Continued from Page 14 during the parade, most restaurants will be. Visitors are advised to plan ahead if they want to eat in town. Main Street will be closed from 510 p.m. from Roadie Joe’s Bar and Grill to the Berlin Library, said Allison Early, the administrative assistant for the economic and community development department. Visitors should park at the Berlin Intermediate School on Franklin Avenue, where a shuttle bus, sponsored by the Casino at Ocean Downs, will take them to the parade viewing area. For those making plans to bring in the new year, Berlin with its two ball drops will be the place to be. The first drop will be for the kids at 6 p.m. and the other will be at midnight. The New Year’s Eve party will feature laser shows, dancing and more. The event is free. “New Year’s Eve will probably be just as crowded and just as much fun,” Wells said.
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Ocean City Today
DECEMBER 1, 2023
Neighborhood water hook-up funding OK’d By Hunter Hine Staff Writer (Dec. 1, 2023) The St. Martin’s By the Bay neighborhood by the St. Martin’s River is set to connect its water service to Ocean Pines’ system after decades of saltwater intrusions in the community’s private well. The Worcester County Commissioners approved a $1.024 million USDA grant and $1.495 million USDA loan to pay for the project that will extend an existing water main along Beauchamp Road to St. Martins Parkway in order to reach the neighborhood. The project’s total price tag is $2.519 million and includes design and construction. The plan also calls for fire hydrants. Customers of the current St. Martin’s water service system have been plagued with shortages since it was installed in 1984. Chris Shook, now a resident of Parsonsburg, attested to that and more at the public hearing regarding the project’s funding. Shook said she and her husband lived in the St. Martin’s community for 33 years and moved in just after the development was created. One of the main reasons Shook relocated to Parsonsburg was because of the water disruptions, as well as having water that was sometimes yellow and
odorous, she said. “I’m here for those people that live there now, that they definitely need this,” Shook said. Shook said that her husband served as president of the homeowners association while they lived there, and that people would come knocking on their door to tell them something was wrong with the water. Shook and her husband would have to call for repairs, sometimes in the middle of the night, and wait for the water to be fixed, she said. “Just a consistent inadequacy that it was even allowed to have water that was like that,” Shook said. The St. Martin’s neighborhood comprises 54 equivalent dwelling units (EDUs), or one EDU for each home there, according to a memo from Chris Clasing, the county’s deputy director of public works. EDUs are a water and wastewater capacity measurement that is required for any development that intends to use or discharge water. Each of the 54 homes require an estimated 250 gallons per day for a total of 13,500 gallons per day for St. Martin’s By the Bay. There is a $3,600 upfront cost for each EDU that is projected to be covered by the USDA funding, Clasing said in an email.
HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY
The Worcester County Commissioners approved funding that would connect the St. Martin’s By the Bay neighborhood’s water service to Ocean Pines’ system. The community’s private well has been plagued by salt-water intrusions for decades. Pictured is the entrance to the neighborhood.
The USDA loan has a 40-year term and three percent interest, incurring a $16,076 total cost for each quarter. That cost is split up among the 54 homes, which comes out to an estimated $392 bill per home per quarter. That quarterly cost is made up by a $298 debt repayment cost and a $94 base water fee and consumption fee for actual gallons used, according to the memo and Clasing’s email. “Bills would begin after construc-
tion is complete and when the water services are turned on for each household. There is no set date at this point in time as the project still needs to be fully designed and constructed,” Clasing said. In May 2022, public works presented an estimated quarterly bill for each home that was $358 dollars following the water service replacement. The estimated bill rose to $392 in part due to rising interest rates, according to the memo.
DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today
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Ocean City Today
DECEMBER 1, 2023
Literacy teams set to help improve reading (Dec. 1, 2023) Members of the Maryland Accountability & Implementation Board have taken steps to improve literacy levels of third graders in all 24 state school districts, including Worcester County. According to a news release, the state board recently approved a joint proposal with the Maryland State Board of Education to create teams of literacy professionals to evaluate reading instruction in the school districts and work directly with local officials to accelerate reading development of young children. Members of the state board approved the plan on Nov. 9. “This effort to improve early literacy instruction will improve the learning experiences of Maryland’s youngest students and prepare them for success at every step in their learning journey,” Clarence C. Crawford, president of the Maryland State Board of Education, said in a news release. Board Chair Isiah “Ike” Leggett emphasized the importance of reading as an essential life skill.
“Research has documented that students who aren’t reading proficiently by third grade struggle to catch up,” he said in the release. “These [professionals] will ensure that all Maryland’s school districts are using the best instructional practices and are preparing teachers who will ensure students are reading proficiently by third grade to be on the path to college and career readiness.” The professionals will work in groups of two to conduct thorough reviews of school districts’ literacy plans
Continued from Page 15 The fair board voted to host the fair from July 12-14 at Byrd Park in Snow Hill, but Rados provided commissioners a layout of what the fair could look like were it to be hosted at John Walter Smith Park — also in Snow Hill — instead.
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to offer high-quality literacy training to improve teachers’ classroom effectiveness. The release said the professionals will collaborate with district leaders, principals and teachers to create strategies to improve literacy plans. They will also provide recommendations to improve literacy instruction and student outcomes. The literacy professionals will begin their work in early 2024 and complete it by the end of the 2023-24 school year.
Talk of moving fair to Smith Park
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The last fair was held at Byrd Park Sept. 15-17. The commissioners expressed interest in moving the fair to John Walter Smith Park for 2024. Commissioner Eric Fiori said Byrd Park floods regularly, and if the commissioners chose to fund this joint venture and the park flooded during the fair, then it wouldn’t be a good value for taxpayers. The county could reach out to the fair board and see if they are also interested in moving the location since Byrd Park is “woefully under-gunned” as a host venue, said Commissioner Joe Mitrecic. “I don’t know all the rules to the fair, so I don’t know what they had done so far with state approval or anything like that so that is something that we can look at,” Rados said in regard to changing the date and location. Rados said that the fair couldn’t be moved to John Walter Smith Park and retain the same July dates because a United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) Eastern National Softball Championship will be there. Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young said that moving the date to August in order to schedule the fair at the Smith Park could create competition for attendance against a slew of other local and state events booked for that month.
The first weekend of August is the Blessing of the Combines, followed by the Great Pocomoke Fair the next weekend, then the Wicomico County fair and finally the beginning of the Maryland State Fair, Young said. Fiori suggested they could work with Pocomoke to adjust the town’s fair dates so that they could end the succession of the county’s agriculturebased events with the Worcester County Fair as a finale. Rados said that even if the date and location doesn’t change for 2024, rec and parks could still begin their involvement in the county fair. Commissioner President Chip Bertino said it could serve as a learning experience. Bertino asked Rados what kind of budget the county would need to allocate for the fair given its heightened involvement. Rados said that she provided commissioners with the budget for Harbor Day at The Docks in Ocean City as an example of what could be required. The Harbor Day budget included around $38,500 from the county, and the fair would likely require funding “slightly north of that,” Rados said. Young said the fair currently receives about $10,000 from the county, about $5,000 from the state and a few donations. Rados said she plans to add the fair to the next fiscal year budget.
DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today
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DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today
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VETERAN VOICES
Gabe Purnell, left, and Wallace Purnell talk about Wallace’s Korean War service at the Germantown School Community Heritage Center’s second Veteran Voices talk on Nov. 25 in Berlin. The next talk is set from 10 a.m. to noon, Dec. 9. Clara Small will discuss Buffalo Soldiers.
Art league First Friday set tonight (Dec. 1, 2023) The Art League of Ocean City is celebrating the holidays at tonight’s First Friday event at the Center for the Arts. The free celebration, set from 5-7 p.m., Dec. 1, will feature two group shows, a small works show, and an artisan fair. The Arts Center is at 502 94th St.,
bayside. Complimentary refreshments, courtesy of PKS Investments, will be served, and Michael Castoro, of Ocean Pines, will play the bagpipes. According to a news release, the Thaler Gallery at the arts center will feature the Annual Members Group Show with artwork in all media by
members of the art league. David Smith, the art league’s Orem & Harriet Robinson Fellow for 2023, will jury the exhibition and award cash prizes. The Sisson Galleria will feature the Best of 2023, artwork that won awards during exhibits of the past See EVENT Page 21
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Ocean City Today
Event showcasing holiday-themed artwork Continued from Page 20 year. Studio E will feature Small Works, which the release said are pieces small in size and affordable in price for holiday giving. The annual Artisan Fair is also set for display at the arts center for two days, with handcrafted items made by local and regional artists. The artists will display their creations during the First Friday art opening and also on Saturday. Items offered include one-of-a-kind jewelry, ceramics, fiber art and more.
From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, the fair will continue with the artisans, plus book signings by local authors, a bake sale, and a community weaving project. Natalie Blanton, of Berlin, will exhibit her paintings in the Spotlight Gallery in December. Born and raised on the Eastern Shore, Blanton spent the last 10 years moving along different bodies of water: Boulder Creek in Colorado, the Caribbean, the Chesapeake Bay and the Mississippi River. The release said the power and purity of water in-
spires her, and her goal is to evoke a feeling of peace and tranquility through her paintings. Blanton also runs her own candle-making business, Honey Water Candles. Svetlana McCoy-Rusanova of Linden, New Jersey, is the art center’s artisan for December. The jeweler works in silver, gold and copper, and sets them with precious and semi-precious stones. The release said she is inspired by the beauty and energy of stones, crystals and natural materials, including sea glass, shells, pearls and amber, and
by her experience as a gardener and flower arranger. First Friday will continue at two locations in North Ocean City. The main lobby gallery at the Princess Royale Oceanfront at 9100 Coastal Hwy. will feature an exhibit of photographs by Carol Ward. A second satellite gallery on 94th Street at the Coffee Beanery will display a show of artwork by Amanda Lind. All shows will be on display until Dec. 30. More information is available at OCart.org or by calling 410524-9433.
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Ocean City Today
OCVFC VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Korb Jr. wears many hats at fire co. By Steve Price Contributing Writer (Dec. 1, 2023) This week it is a pleasure to recognize current life member of the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company, Robert “Rob” Korb Jr. Rob began his career with the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office in 2001 as a deputy fire marshal. He also served as senior deputy fire marshal. Most recently (2022), he was promoted to the position of chief deputy fire marshal serving under the leadership of Fire Marshal Matt Owens. Korb previously served in the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Company, initially as a cadet and later joining his father, Robert Korb Sr., as a firefighter with the OPVFD. After moving to Ocean City during his college days, Korb worked nights as a 911 dispatcher for the Town of Ocean City, while attending classes during the day at Salisbury University. He decided to join the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company to serve the community where he was living and working. During his 16 years of active service, Firefighter Korb served as a lieutenant on Engine 704 and was certified as a fire boat operator for the department. He has also been a strong advocate for the OCVFC’s application of technology
and engagement in social media while serving as the IT and website committee chairman. Lt. Korb recalls the Hooper’s Crab House fire in January 2002 as the most significant event of his firefighting career. He was residing as a “livein” at OCVFC Station #2 (Dorchester Street) at the time of the fire and drove the first engine to the scene. This “Rob” Korb Jr. would also be his first fire investigation, having just been hired as a fire investigator with the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office. He stated: “I’ve now been part of well over a thousand fire investigations, but I always come back to where it all began and what set my career in motion.” When asked to examine his greatest accomplishment in the Fire Service, Rob responded: “I have encountered some incredible situations during my tenure as a volunteer firefighter and as a County Fire Marshal. I have witnessed individuals experiencing the most challenging moments of their lives and I’ve been involved in some extraordinary rescue operations. I hope my time serving Ocean City and the
Worcester County community has been measurable to anyone I have provided support to in times of success and adversity.” Lt. Korb would like to “pass on” the following advice to our OCVFC Cadets and young men and women with an interest in the Fire Service: “With due respect second only to members of our armed forces, thank you for the courage to walk through that door at 15th Street (OCVFC Headquarters) and for stepping up to serve our community. You are now part of a fraternal organization where you will meet daily challenges only your mind and ‘Murphy’ can envision. You will be challenged both physically and mentally, take care of yourself in both regards. Develop a mental toughness, recognize the signs of stress, and reach out for help if you need it. Firefighting is a team effort, trust and communicate clearly with your peers. Learn your equipment so that you may make smart and safe decisions. Firefighting is dynamic, embrace change. Remember, firefighting, is not just a job but a calling. Accept the challenges, learn from your experiences, and take great pride in the important and often lifesaving work you will do.” See KORB Page 24
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DECEMBER 1, 2023
DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today
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DECEMBER 1, 2023
Accused OC rapist in custody after release (Dec. 1, 2023) A multi-state search for a New Jersey man accused of rape and assault charges in Ocean City has come to an end after Maryland State Police apprehended him in Frederick County, according to an email from Ashley Miller, the deputy communications manager for the Ocean City Police, Adrian Castaneda Sanchez, 38, is currently in custody in Worcester County following what she called a relentless search. Castaneda Sanchez faces charges of first-degree rape, two counts of second-degree rape, a third-degree sex offense, three counts of fourth-degree
sexual contact, and two counts of second-degree assault stemming from an investigation the Ocean City Police began in mid-August. Shortly thereafter, Miller’s email said a Worcester County Grand Jury indicted Castaneda Sanchez and an arrest warrant was issued. A. Castaneda Castaneda Sanchez Sanchez is a New Jersey resident and detectives traveled there in October to speak with him and execute the arrest warrant. The email said Castaneda
Sanchez was out of town for work and agreed to meet with our detectives on Halloween. Instead, he attempted to leave the country. On Oct. 27, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents apprehended Castaneda Sanchez at the Philadelphia airport for his outstanding warrant and turned him over to the Philadelphia Police Department to initiate the extradition process back to Maryland. The email said the court process in Pennsylvania required a bail hearing, though, and Castaneda Sanchez was instead released from custody in Pennsylvania after posting a $30,000 bail. The Ocean City warrant was
never served and remained active. On Nov. 1, Castaneda Sanchez was featured on the Ocean City Police Department’s “Wanted Wednesday” Facebook page to let the public know he was still on the loose and considered a threat. On Nov. 13, the search came to an end when Castaneda Sanchez turned himself in to the Maryland State Police Frederick Barrack. With the assistance of Maryland State Police, Castaneda Sanchez was taken back to Worcester County to appear in court on the charges in the warrant. He remains in custody without bond.
OCVFC VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Korb thanked for fire service Continued from Page 22 We thank Lt. Korb for his years of service and commitment to the safety and well-being of our neighbors and visitors to Ocean City and our Worcester County communities. For membership information, or to learn more about the local volunteer fire company, visit ocvfc.com.
DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today
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Ocean City Today
DECEMBER 1, 2023
Jolly Roger and Diakonia partner for Giving Tuesday (Dec. 1, 2023) Jolly Roger Amusement Parks partnered with local nonprofit organization Diakonia Inc. for Giving Tuesday this week to start the season of giving off on the right foot. “This year marks our third Giving Tuesday collaboration with Diakonia,” Steve Pastusak, the vice president of Jolly Roger Amusement Parks, said in a news release. “Each year our team rallies together to actively engage and make a positive impact in [the] local community where we live, work, and play.” Giving Tuesday, held this year on Nov. 28, is a global movement driven by individuals, charities, businesses and communities across the world. The release said it is the world’s largest generosity movement, and largely considered the beginning of the giving season. The impact of Giving Tuesday includes not only charitable donations, but giving in all forms. People coast to coast embrace the day as an opportunity to raise money for local charities and nonprofit organizations,
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Representatives from Jolly Roger Amusement Parks and Dikonia pose together outside the nonprofit in West Ocean City. The business partnered with the nonprofit for Giving Tuesday on Nov. 28.
CROSSWORD
donate to food and clothing drives, encourage kindness, help a neighbor, and generally celebrate the power of generosity. “Our Parks give back throughout the year, and are excited to put our feet to the ground on Giving Tuesday.” Pastusak said.“We encourage other local businesses to participate in making a difference as well.”
Ocean City Police collecting toys for drive through Dec. 7 (Dec. 1, 2023) In celebration of the holiday season, members of the Ocean City Police Department are collecting new, unwrapped toys for the department’s annual holiday toy drive. This year, all toy donations will benefit Worcester County GOLD. The local nonprofit organization provides financial aid to families in crisis, vulnerable adults, and children in foster care in Worcester County. This is the eighth year the OCPD toy drive has benefited the organization. According to a news release, all toys will be provided to Worcester
County GOLD as part of the organization’s Helping Hands for the Holidays program. In 2022, the nonprofit provided holiday gifts for over 550 children and 49 adults. New, unwrapped toys may be dropped off at the public safety building at 6501 Coastal Hwy. The lease said Worcester GOLD representatives request that all toys be valued at $40 or less, and not include jewelry, bicycles, electronics, video games or toy weapons. All monetary donations and contributions should be directed to See DONATIONS Page 31
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DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today
PAGE 27
HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 You may have difficulty reaching people this week, Aries. Whether it’s difficulty getting attention or tech issues affecting communication, use the situation as an opportunity to relax.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, a challenging project may lead you to throw yourself into work even more than usual over the course of the week. Remember to take time to exhale.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Visit someone in person if you are looking to catch up or have a meaningful conversation, Gemini. Skip impersonal text messages or social media posts and meet face-to-face.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Unfortunate financial news may come your way, Cancer. Take the developments in stride and resolve to overcome them. Seek advice on how to do so, if necessary.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, there is a strong desire for romance surrounding you. Whether you want to spice up a current relationship or are seeking a new one, this is the week to put out feelers.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, enjoy a unique chance to spend quality time with someone you love. Enjoy the experience in the moment and resolve to spend more time together.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 An unexpected meeting with a friend and subsequent conversation could leave you feeling a little shaken, Libra. You will learn things that give you a new perspective.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 You could experience a desire to make sudden changes to your home life, work situation or even a relationship, Scorpio. Stagnation has set in, but now is not the time for big moves.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, if a message arrives from someone who lives far away, you may be prompted to hop in the car or on a plane and visit that person. An impromptu trip could be fun.
FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Fake snow falls from the sky around a float during Ocean City’s Christmas parade in 2019, which was the last time the event was held to its full capacity. This year’s parade is set for 11 a.m, Saturday, and run north from Old Landing Road to 120th Street on Coastal Highway.
OC Christmas Parade returns Sat. By Taylor Sloan Feature Writer (Dec. 1, 2023) The 40th Anniversary of the Ocean City Christmas Parade is set to return in full force at 11 a.m, Saturday, in north Ocean City. The route will ascend north from Old Landing Road in the south traffic side of Coastal Highway to 120th Street where judges will await the floats and other participants. The Masters of The Ceremony this year are local radio sensation and DJ, DJ BK, and 47 WMDT Good Morning Delmarva Anchor Jordie Clark. The two will let parade goers know who is coming down to the judges’ stand. Ocean City has professional judges from the National Judges’ Association, skilled in judging different events, including parades. There are four award categories that are allotted to give first, second and third place prizes to the winners. The categories are School Band, Top
Parade Float, Marching Unit, and Best Motorized Vehicle. Three additional awards will be given that are the Mayor’s Choice Award, Coca-Cola Award, this is awarded to the parade entry with the most energy and fun, and the Carousel Award, which is presented to the parade entry with the best Ocean City vacation theme. “This is something people look forward to,” Ocean City Special Events Director Frank Miller said. Special Events Assistant Branda Moore added that the event is typically “great day for the community.” Last year the parade was rained out, and Covid-19 had decreased attendance in previous years since the 2020 pandemic. “We are pretty excited to get back out there,” said Moore. Miller said city officials are “really excited to be bringing the parade back.” “[Because] it showcases OC being
family friendly and it’s a familyfriendly event,” he said. Traffic pattern changes for the parade will begin around 8 a.m., with congestion and delays expected. People will not be permitted to watch the parade from the median, and spectators are advised to use crosswalks and cross the road with traffic signals. For more information regarding the parade, call the Town of Ocean City Special Events Department at 410-250-0125. The parade ends near the Carousel Hotel, where family-friendly postevent festivities will take place. The Carousel is a title sponsor of the OC Christmas Parade. The postparade festivities will take place 1-3 p.m., and include the trophy ceremony. The Carousel will also have ice skating, hot cocoa, coffee and cider, live entertainment, free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and happy hour food and drink specials for participants and parade goers. For more information, visit carouselgrouphotels.com/festivefamily-fun-at-the-carousel-hotel.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Look into all of the facts surrounding an offer to increase your income, Capricorn. It could be too good to be true, or it might be a legitimate deal. You need to sort things out.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, this week you may encounter someone who is very interested in you. The resulting attention can be quite flattering. You’ll need to decide if it should go further.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Situations that arise this week could have you feeling stressed, Pisces. Find ways you can separate yourself from certain situations that rile you up, even if it means a five-minute break.
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PAGE 28
DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
Snow Hill decorations Members of the Snow Hill Area Chamber of Commerce and Town of Snow Hill officials are asking all business owners to decorate their storefronts for the holiday season. Photos are to be emailed to info@snowhillchamber.com Voting began Nov. 24, and will run through Dec. 22. The winner will be announced Dec. 23. Voting will be online at: pollunit.com/en/polls/snowhillholiday The winner will receive a custom trophy and bragging rights.
Pines holiday markets Throughout the month of December, the Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market will host “Tinsel & Twine” markets featuring holiday cheer, family friendly activities, fresh local produce and handmade gift items. The holiday-themed markets will be held every Saturday, from Dec. 2-23, and feature a variety of fresh holiday meal trimmings and produce, floral arrangements, baked goods, and other gifts. There will also be live holiday music and faceprinting, and a candy cane scavenger hunt during the Dec. 9 market. The Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market is open 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays in White Horse Park, next to the Ocean Pines Administration Building and Police Department.
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St. Paul’s celebration St. Paul’s by-the-Sea in Ocean City is celebrating the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe later this month and the public is invited to experience the annual tradition. At 6 p.m., Dec. 12, there will be a special Holy Eucharist service, which will begin with a procession outside following the statue of the Virgin Mary through the red doors of the church at 302 N. Baltimore Ave. in downtown Ocean City. Bulletins will be provided with English and Spanish translations, side-byside so everyone will be able to follow the service. After the service, there will be a celebration in the church hall, which will include Mexican music and food that is traditional for the occasion.
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PAGE 29
Ocean City Today
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(Dec. 1, 2023) A day celebrating philanthropy for Lower Shore nonprofits culminated in a record-breaking $310,178 raised for participating Lower Shore nonprofits. According to a news release, more than 2,279 donations were made during the ninth annual Shore Gives More Giving Tuesday campaign. Since inception, the campaign has raised more than $1.8 million for local organizations. Giving Tuesday, held each year on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, is an international 24-hour online giving movement. The local campaign, known as The Shore Gives More, is hosted by the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore and assists local nonprofits with fundraising. By providing an online donation platform, marketing, and technical support, the campaign makes a significant impact through collective philanthropy. “Nonprofits provide critical services to the local community, and fundraisers like Giving Tuesday help charities connect with donors,” Community Foundation President Erica Joseph said in the release. “Giving Tuesday has become its own holiday around the shore, and the local generosity really shines a spotlight on how wonderful our region is.” The Shore Gives More was first launched as a Giving Tuesday campaign for the Lower Eastern Shore in 2015 and raised just under $4,285 in its first year. “As the area’s leading philanthropic resource, the Community Foundation understands the complexities around charitable giving, and we work hard to simplify the giving process for both donors and nonprofits,” Joseph said. “By giving through the Shore Gives More campaign, donors know their gifts will have an impact close to home.” The campaign received sponsorships from 47 ABC and Shore United Bank, which significantly increased the campaign presence. To learn more about the “Shore Gives More” Giving Tuesday campaign for local nonprofits visit CFES.org or ShoreGivesMore.org to view individual nonprofit participants.
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 $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood. Breakfast: closed Monday through Wednesday; Thursday through Saturday, 7:30-11 a.m.; Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to noon. Open daily for Dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m. ■ COASTAL SALT 16th Street and the Boardwalk, Ocean City, 410-973-7258, coastalsaltoc.com $$-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Beautiful oceanfront dining on the boardwalk. American restaurant with an emphasis on fresh, locally caught seafood with a unique culinary twist. With a wonderful balance of meticulously prepared cuisine, inventive cocktails and incredible customer service, Closed Monday through Wednesday. Open Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday opening at 8 a.m. ■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT 28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials. Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 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 410-289-2612, coralreefrestaurant.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Enjoy traditional Eastern Shore cuisine and local favorites that are sure to please your entire party! Choose from a selection of house specialty entrees such as sharables, handhelds and seafood. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring specialty rums. Open daily, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m. ■ PAPI’S TACO JOINT 15th Street and Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City 443-664-6811, Papistacojoint.com $$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar Authentic Mexican restaurant open 7 days a week. Weekdays, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and weekends 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. With a family atmosphere you can enjoy building your own street tacos with a sheet table side with their home-made authentic salsa. Serving food such as little cravings, choice of salsas, salads, bowls, soups, main dishes and desserts. Also, brunch, gluten free and vegan menus. Happy Hour Monday through Friday, 3-5 p.m. with beer, wines, cocktails and specialty signature
drinks. Dine in or order online for your carryout. ■ PICKLES PUB 706 Philadelphia Ave, Ocean City, 410289-4891, picklesoc.com $$ | Full bar Open all year from 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m., 7 days a week. Serving lunch, dinner and entire menu until 1 a.m. with nightly entertainment while dining in one of the local sports bars. Serving a wide variety of appetizers, soups, salads, pizzas, lite fare to special entrees. Serving a wide variety of beers, wines, and specialty drinks. Check the website for weekly specials. ■ TOAST ITALIAN RESTAURANT 221 Wicomico Street and Bay Front, Ocean City, 410-237-7070, @toastocmd.com $$-$$$ | Full bar Enjoy waterfront bay Italian dining with a million $ view. Home of the Super Slice pizza. Serving brunch, lunch and dinner. Soups, salads, sandwiches, small plates and entrées served after 3 p.m. Check out the website for a full menu. Happy Hour, 2-6 p.m. with food and drink specials. Open year round. Closed Tuesdays. Open weekdays, 2-9 p.m. and weekends 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Free street parking every day.
MIDTOWN
29th to 90th streets ■ 32 PALM 32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410-289-2525, 32palm.com $$ | 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. ■ LONGBOARD’S CAFÉ 6701 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, 443664-5693, longboardcafe.com $$-$$$ | Full bar Casual Dining … Refined. Open for lunch and dinner. A wide range of gourmet burgers, innovative tacos, salads and sandwiches to full dinner entrees featuring fresh local fish prepared in a variety of styles, beef, shellfish and pasta. All our sauces, salsas, dressings, etc. are meticulously house made. We use fresh local sources wherever possible and premium ingredients such as our chuck, brisket and short rib custom blended burgers. Closed Tuesday. Call for reservations. ■ MARLIN MOON RESTAURANT 3301 Atlantic Ave. in the Double Tree Hotel, Ocean City 410-289-1201, marlinmoonocmd.com $$ | Full bar Winner of the Maryland People's choice award, Marlin Moon continues to offer its famous, locally loved dishes and famous happy hour. Enjoy creatively crafted cocktails, fresh selections from the raw bar and luscious desserts. Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m., featuring drink specials. Breakfast, 7:3011:30 a.m.; Lite Fare, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Dinner, 4-10 p.m.; and Bar open noon to 11 p.m. ■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-524-4900, www.seacrets.com
DECEMBER 1, 2023
$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday through Saturday, 10 a.m. through midnight with island atmosphere. Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood.
UPTOWN
91st to 146th streets ■ BAHAMA’S CRAB SHACK CARRYOUT & OUTLET Oceanside MD/DE Line and Coastal Hwy, Fenwick 302-537-5882 Premier seafood, chicken, homemade soups, super crab cakes, steamed shrimp, fresh clams, soft crabs, scallops, oysters and snow crab claws. Fat crabs by weight, sandwiches and dinners. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Open Wednesday through Sunday. ■ CAROUSEL OCEANFRONT HOTEL & CONDOS 118th Street, Ocean City 800-6410011, www.carouselhotel.com Enjoy one of the restaurants at the Carousel. Fine Ocean Front dining with a beautiful view. The Reef 118 is open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday through Sunday serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and 4-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday serving dinner. The Bamboo Lounge is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Sunday and 4-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday. ■ GREENE TURTLE 11601 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, 410723-2120, originalgreeneturtle.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Voted best sports bar restaurant in Ocean City, The Original Greene Turtle is the perfect family hangout with the best burgers and wings in Ocean City and arcade games! Looking to catch the game? With more than 70 TVs we are your sports headquarters! Serving appetizers, wings, salads, homemade bowls of soup, handheld burgers, chicken, Maryland crab cakes, with a wide variety of beers, wines and specialty drinks. Open 7 days a week 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. ■ LEON’S AT THE BEACH 11805 Coastal Hwy., Located in the Ocean City Square Shopping Center 410-524-2609 $$/$$$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar Under new management. Serving lunch and dinner with new menu items. Finger foods, savory sandwiches, soups, salads, and delicious entrees. One of the highlights is the famous burgers. High quality ingredients and cooked to perfection. Also, serving fresh seafood, steaks, and chef’s special dishes. Happy Hour, daily, 4-7 p.m. Dine in, carry out and curbside pickup. NFL specials every game, food, and drink specials available. Check out our website for more details. Closed every Tuesday. ■ NORI’S 11403 Coastal Hwy, located in the Gold Coast Mall, Ocean City, 443-880-6258, norisoc.com $$ | Full bar Voted Ocean City’s Best Full-Service Sushi bar, steaks and sashimi, seafood entrees with fried rices, vegan, vegetarian, sandwiches, gluten free Sushi and meals. Many drink specials, wine and beers. Open 7 days a week, from 11:30 a.m. until. Dine in, carry out and delivery available. ■ SOPHIA’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 11405 Coastal Hwy, located in the Gold Coast Mall, Ocean City, 410-723-5188, sophiasitalianrestaurantocmd.com $$ | Full bar Located in the Gold Coast Mall serving one of Ocean City’s finest Italian dinners. Lunch specials, appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches and homemade Ital-
ian dinners. Full bar with beers, wine and specialty drinks. Open 7 days a week, 11:30 a.m. Dine in, carry out and delivery available. ■ VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT 13801 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, located on the 8th floor of the Fenwick Inn, 410-390-7905, vistarooftopoc.com $$-$$$ | Full bar Enjoy a wonderful dinner overlooking the ocean and the bay. Serving off season weekly specials. Steaks, seafood, burgers, soups, salads and lite fare. Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to midnight. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to midnight. Happy Hour, 3-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday brunch, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Check out the website for a full menu.
OCEAN PINES ■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE 100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410641-7222, Oceanpinesgolf.org/dining $$ | 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 $$ | Full bar | Celebrating 40 years in Ocean City. Offering pizza, wings, burgers, subs, salads, pasta and more! Open daily at 11 a.m. Serving food until 2 a.m. ■ SELLO’S ITALIAN OVEN & BAR 9802 Golf Course Road, 410-390-3543, sellosoc.com $$-$$$$ | Full bar Located in the heart of West Ocean City. You may think you stepped off a city street and not just off the beach or boat. You will find a wide array of choices from a wood-fired oven individual pizza to our 8 oz. center-cut filet mignon. Join us at Sello’s, your new “happy place,” where “va tutto bene” … it’s all good … Open Sunday through Thursday, 5 p.m. until and Friday and Saturday 4 p.m. until.
DECEMBER 1, 2023
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Ocean City Today
NOW PLAYING
KONO NATION
Seacrets: Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m. PHOTO COURTESY STEVE EDWARDS VIA MARYLAND DNR PHOTO CONTEST
A whitetail buck looks off into the distance in a wooded Maryland area.
Maryland two-week deer firearms season underway (Dec. 1, 2023) The two-week firearms hunting season for sika and white-tailed deer opened last weekend across the state. According to news release from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the season began Nov. 25, and runs through Dec. 9. The release said the season includes Sunday hunting in all but three counties, giving hunters more weekend opportunities to hunt and contribute to managing Maryland’s deer population. Worcester County is not one of the three exempt counties, and contains both private and public hunting lands. “The two-week firearms season is the most popular season with deer hunters,” Wildlife and Heritage Service Director Karina Stonesifer said in the release. “For many, taking part in the firearms season is a tradition and provides a great opportunity to introduce new hunters to deer hunting. This season is also essential for managing the state’s healthy deer population.” Bag limits for the firearm season, along with other deer hunting seasons and regulations, are available in the 2023-24 Maryland Guide to Hunting and Trapping. New this year, if hunters intend to pursue sika deer, they must buy a sika hunting stamp. Sika stamps are available online through licensing agency COMPASS, or by calling DNR Licensing and Registration Services at 866344-8889. Hunters are reminded that an antler-point restriction remains in effect. Deer hunters may harvest one antlered white-tailed deer within the yearly bag limit that does not meet the requirement of having at least three points on one antler. Any more antlered deer taken within the established bag limit must meet the minimum point restriction. Licensed junior hunters and apprentice license holders, 16 and younger, are exempt from the restriction. During firearms season, Maryland
requires deer hunters and their companions to wear daylight fluorescent orange or daylight fluorescent pink in one of the following manners: a cap of solid fluorescent daylight orange or pink, a vest or jacket containing back and front panels of at least 250 square inches of fluorescent daylight orange or pink, or an outer garment of camouflage daylight fluorescent orange or pink worn above the waist and containing at least 50 percent daylight fluorescent color. The release said hunters should inspect all tree stands and always wear a full-body safety harness in stands and while climbing in or out. Department officials “strongly” recommend using a sliding knot, commonly known as a prusik knot, attached to a line that is secured above the stand that allows the hunter to be safely tethered to the tree as soon as they leave the ground. Hunters are encouraged to help others by donating deer taken in Maryland. A state tax credit offers hunters an incentive for donated deer. Other local or state programs are also available, so hunters should check with their deer processors.
Donations go to Worcester GOLD Continued from Page 26 Worcester County GOLD and mailed to the nonprofit at PO BOX 335, Snow Hill, MD 21863 (write HHH on the memo line). Worcester GOLD can also accept monetary donations online at worcestergold.org/helpinghands-holidays/. Holiday event organizers who want to partner with the OCPD holiday toy drive are asked to contact Deputy Communications Manager Ashley Miller at 410-520-5395. The deadline for all toy donations is Dec. 7.
CAPTAIN’S TABLE
PICKLE’S PUB
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.
706 Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City, 410-289-4891 / picklesoc.com Dec. 1: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Dec. 2: Dunehounds, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Dec. 3: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Dec. 4: Karaoke w/Wood, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Dec. 5: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Dec. 6: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Dec. 7: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.
Phil Perdue
COINS 28th Street and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100 / www.coinspuboc.com Dec. 2: Giddy Up Sing-A-Long, 4-6:30 p.m.; No More Whiskey, 7:30 p.m. LEON’S AT THE BEACH In the Ocean City Square Shopping Center, 11805 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City 410-524-2609 /www.whiskersbar.com Dec. 1: Dance with Beats by followers, 8 p.m. Dec. 4: Industrial Night: 8 p.m. Dec. 5: Ladies Night; Karaoke w/DJ Wood
SEACRETS 49th Street and the Bay, Ocean City 410-524-4900 / www.seacrets.com Dec. 1: Full Circle Duo, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Tuff, 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Seacrets' Holiday Bazaar & Bubbly 2023, 6-9 p.m.; Starlight Anthem, 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Dec. 2: South Penn Dixie, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Bobby-O, 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.; DJ Cruz, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Kono Nation, 10 p.m. to 1:50 a.m. Dec. 3: Football Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. Dec. 7: Blake Haley, 5-9 p.m.; DJ Connair, 9 p.m. to 1:50 a.m.; Sip On That Thursdays!, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
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Ocean City Today
DECEMBER 1, 2023
Calendar Fri., Dec. 1 MAHJONG CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. All are welcome. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
FIBER FRIENDS ANNUAL HAT SALE
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 12 p.m. Hats, headbands, scarves, cowls and mittens available. All are handmade items to benefit the Friends of the Ocean Pines Library. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
FLIGHT
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Learn about basic principles of flight while building a hovercraft and testing it in the wind tunnel. Experiment with film canister rockets and gliders. For ages 10 years and older. 410-957-0878
FIRST FRIDAY OPENING RECEPTION & HOLIDAY FAIR
Art League of Ocean City - Center for the Arts, 502 94th St., 5-7 p.m. Featuring award winning artists from the past 12 months. Meet the artists, enjoy hors d’oeuvres and see the new exhibits by a variety of local and regional artists. https://artleagueofoceancity.org, 410524-9433
THE MAYOR’S OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS EVENING
Downtown Pocomoke City, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Live music, s’mores, hot chocolate and cider, hot dogs, horse & carriage rides, ornament making, Mr. and Mrs. Claus and more. Tree lighting at 6 p.m. Nonperishables and paper products being collected. 410-957-1333, Ext. 111
12 TOURNAMENTS OF CHRISTMAS
Ocean Downs Casino, 10218 Racetrack Road, Berlin. Slot Tournaments: Dec. 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12. Blackjack Tournaments: Dec. 3, 5, 7, 10, 11. Benefits Toys for Tots. https://www.oceandowns.com/promotions/12-tournaments-of-christmas-2/
Sat., Dec. 2 40TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARADE
Proceeds along Coastal Highway from Old Landing Road north to 120th St., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Awards and activities held at the Carousel after parade. https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/special-events/christmas-parade/.
CHRISTMAS COOKIE WALK AND CRAFTS
Bethany United Methodist Church, 8648 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Cookies and other sweets
sold by the pound. Christmas wreaths and other craft items for sale. For more information call 410-641-2186 or email Bethany 21811@gmail.com.
2023 CHRISTMAS BAZAAR
Stevenson United Methodist Church, 123 N. Main St., Berlin, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Vendors, bake table, vegetable beef soup and pulled pork sandwiches, silent auction and white elephant.
FIBER FRIENDS ANNUAL HAT SALE
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Hats, headbands, scarves, cowls and mittens available. All are handmade items to benefit the Friends of the Ocean Pines Library. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
SATURDAY WRITERS
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: WINTER WONDERLAND Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m. Come and make some winter-ful crafts. All ages welcome. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
Cambria Hotel Ocean City - Bayfront, 13 Saint Louis Ave., 4-7 p.m. Seasonal local brews and drinks, live music, light fair and prizes for “Most Lit” costumes. General admission cost is $40. VIP packages available. https://www.shorecraftbeerfest.com/lets-get-lit.html, 443-373-4093
Art League of Ocean City - Center for the Arts, 502 94th St., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Shop jewelry, ceramics, fiber art and more from local artists. There will be art activities, a bake sale, raffle, book signings, and community weaving project. https://artleagueofoceancity.org, 410524-9433
HOLIDAY PLAY TIME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Kids, 4 years and younger, can can enjoy toys and activities in the children’s area, make a craft and complete a scavenger hunt for a prize. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
Ocean Downs Casino, 10218 Racetrack Road, Berlin. Slot Tournaments: Dec. 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12. Blackjack Tournaments: Dec. 3, 5, 7, 10, 11. Benefits Toys for Tots. https://www.oceandowns.com/promotions/12-tournaments-of-christmas-2/
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., Dec. 3 HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, 813 S. Atlantic Ave., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free admission, live music and book signing (11:30 a.m.), snack samplings, sand dollar ornament making, artifact scavenger hunt and 20% off purchases in the gift shop. https://www.ocmuseum.org
Wicomico Civic Center, 500 Glen Ave., Salisbury, 12-4 p.m. Live music, craft vendors, holiday characters, unlimited access to the bounce house village and more. Cost is $12 for those 1 year and older. Tickets: www.WicomicoCivicCenter.org and at the door.
TRIMPER RIDES CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL
Trimper Rides of Ocean City, 700 S. Atlantic Ave., 12-5 p.m. Vendors, indoor rides, 2024 Summer Pass sale, Snowball Brawl in Elf Land, holiday music performers and life-size Trimper Land board game. OCDC fundraiser. www.trimperrides.com, 410-289-8617
MID-ATLANTIC SYMPHONY - HOLIDAY JOY
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 12-2 p.m. Design and make earrings using semiprecious stones and crystals. Limit 15. Registration required: 410-208-4014. www.worcesterlibrary.org
Ocean City Performing Arts Center Roland E. Powell Convention Center, 4001 Coastal Highway, 3 p.m. Festive selection of holiday music. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. Tickets cost $55. Tickets: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/3716277 4/mid-atlantic-symphony-holiday-joyocean-city-oc-performing-arts-center.
TRIMPER RIDES CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL
12 TOURNAMENTS OF CHRISTMAS
VICTORIAN INSPIRED EARRINGS
Trimper Rides of Ocean City, 700 S. Atlantic Ave., 12-5 p.m. Vendors, indoor rides, 2024 Summer Pass sale, Snowball Brawl in Elf Land, holiday music performers and life-size Trimper Land board game. OCDC fundraiser. www.trimperrides.com, 410-289-8617
LET’S GET LIT
Mon., Dec. 4 STORY TIME: ‘WADDLING PENGUINS’
12 TOURNAMENTS OF CHRISTMAS
FROSTY FAMILY FESTIVAL HOLIDAY ARTISAN FAIR
Sundays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 10 a.m. www.jw.org
Ocean Downs Casino, 10218 Racetrack Road, Berlin. Slot Tournaments: Dec. 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12. Blackjack Tournaments: Dec. 3, 5, 7, 10, 11. Benefits Toys for Tots. https://www.oceandowns.com/promotions/12-tournaments-of-christmas-2/
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Stories, music with movement and crafts about penguins. For ages 2-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
SMALL SOCIETY WORKSHOP
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 1:30 p.m. Build your business from the ground up during this multi-day workshop (Dec. 4 and 11). Recommended for ages 7 years and older. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
GREAT BOOKS DISCUSSION
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 2:30 p.m. This group meets twice a month to discuss selections recommended by the Great Books Foundation. Today’s focus is on “Masks” by George Santayana. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169
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
12 TOURNAMENTS OF CHRISTMAS
Ocean Downs Casino, 10218 Racetrack Road, Berlin. Slot Tournaments: Dec. 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12. Blackjack Tournaments: Dec. 3, 5, 7, 10, 11. Benefits Toys for Tots. https://www.oceandowns.com/promotions/12-tournaments-of-christmas-2/
DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS Mondays - Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 6:00-8:00 p.m. All ladies who love to sing invited. Mary, 410-629-9383 or Carol, 302-2427062.
OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS
Mondays - Worcester County Library Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100
Tues., Dec. 5 NOURISH & CELEBRATE: HOLIDAY NUTRITION WORKSHOP Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 9-11 a.m. Learn how to keep your diet and nutrition in check during the holidays with Kathleen
Continued on Page 33
DECEMBER 1, 2023
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Ocean City Today
CALENDAR Continued from Page 32 Dorsch. She will also do a healthy cooking demonstration. Alyce Marzola, 410641-9268, amarzola@atlanticgeneral.org
STORY TIME: ‘RABBITS’
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and fingerplays. For ages 2-5 years. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME: ‘LET’S EAT’
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and crafts. For ages 2-5 years. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BEACH HEROES-OC
Tuesdays - Volunteer beach clean-up group meets from 9-10 a.m., year-round. Trash bags, grippers and gloves provided. Check the Facebook page “Beach Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.
Tuesdays - Berlin Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 212 West St., Berlin, 7 p.m. www.jw.org
TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY
12 TOURNAMENTS OF CHRISTMAS
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING
Tuesdays - Worcester County Health Department, 9730 Healthway Drive, Berlin, 3:30-4:30 p.m. TOPS is a weekly support and education group promoting weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. 410289-4725
Berlin 50plus Center, 10129 Old Ocean City Blvd., 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Dr. Beck will discuss joint health, the latest in treatments and surgery. Alyce Marzola, 410-641-9268, amarzola@atlanticgeneral.org
MASTER GARDENERS PLANT CLINIC
Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 11 a.m. Join in as Master Gardener Ginny Rosenkranz talks about all things plants. Bring questions and feel free to show your plants as well. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BABY TIME
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 11 a.m. Songs, rhymes and stories. Stay after to socialize with other families. For ages 2 years and younger. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
ANIME CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 4 p.m. Come celebrate your appreciation for anime and manga. Monthly themes will include trivia games, Japanese snacks and arts and crafts. For ages 13-16 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
12 TOURNAMENTS OF CHRISTMAS
Ocean Downs Casino, 10218 Racetrack Road, Berlin. Slot Tournaments: Dec. 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12. Blackjack Tournaments: Dec. 3, 5, 7, 10, 11. Benefits Toys for Tots. https://www.oceandowns.com/promotions/12-tournaments-of-christmas-2/
VIRTUAL POETRY READING
Held via Zoom, 7 p.m. Wor-Wic Community College is inviting the public to a free virtual poetry reading by D. Nurkse. Visit the events section at www.worwic.edu for more information.
Ocean Downs Casino, 10218 Racetrack Road, Berlin. Slot Tournaments: Dec. 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12. Blackjack Tournaments: Dec. 3, 5, 7, 10, 11. Benefits Toys for Tots. https://www.oceandowns.com/promotions/12-tournaments-of-christmas-2/
OC KNITTING CLUB
Tuesdays - Worcester County Library Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m.
ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE JOINT HEALTH SEMINAR WITH DR. THOMAS BECK
HOLIDAY DECOUPAGE ORNAMENTS
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5 p.m. Decoupage oyster shells. There will be an assortment of themed designs and beads to choose from. All materials included. No experience necessary. Registration required: 410-632-3495.
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
tion on the topic of diabetes. Darlene Jameson, 410-208-9761, djameson@atlanticgeneral.org
Tuesdays - Experienced dancers and others interested in watching or learning more are welcome, 7-9:30 p.m. No partner required. Info: TangobytheBeach.com.
ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS
Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
Wed., Dec. 6 BARIATRIC SUPPORT GROUP
Held the first and second Wednesday of each month. For non-surgical patients. Atlantic General Bariatric Center, 410641-9568.
PUZZLE SWAP
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 1-5 p.m. Bring your gently used puzzles and leave with new-to-you puzzles. All puzzles must be complete in their original box. Don’t have a puzzle but still want one? That’s OK too. 410-641-0650
GLASS BLOWN ORNAMENTS
Jeffrey Auxer Designs, 19 Jefferson St., Berlin, 1 p.m. Local glass blower, Jeffrey Auxer, teaches the group to make ornaments in his studio. Limit 12. Registration required: 443-783-6164. www.worcesterlibrary.org
COFFEE AND CANVAS
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Learn painting basics while sipping coffee and creating a new canvas for your home. Supplies provided, Registration required: 410-957-0878. www.worcesterlibrary.org
DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 5-6 p.m. The group provides discussion and educa-
KIWANIS CLUB MEETING
Wednesdays - Ocean Pines Community Center, Assateague Room, 239 Ocean Parkway, 8 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. Third Wednesday meetings are offsite and will be updated monthly on the website and Facebook. Guests are welcome. www.kiwanisofopoc.org
ZUMBA WEDNESDAYS
Wednesdays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st St., 10 a.m. Dance background not required. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com
Thurs., Dec. 7
MUSIC & MOVEMENT: WALKING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m. A fun, winter-themed music and movement program. Get ready to shake all those sillies out. For ages 2-5 years. 410208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org
STORY TIME ‘THREE LITTLE KITTENS’
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and rhymes. For ages 2-5 years. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
CHESS CLUB
Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. A quiet place to meet new friends and play some chess. Bring your boards and enjoy the strategy. All are welcome. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org
BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘THE UNCOUPLING’ BY MEG WOLITZER
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Copies of the book are available at the Pocomoke circulation desk. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
PUZZLE-PIECE WREATHS
Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Make a decorative wreath using cardboard rings and puzzle pieces. All materials provided. Registration required: 410-641-0650. www.worcesterlibrary.org
BERLIN CHRISTMAS PARADE
Berlin Main Street, 7-9 p.m. Featuring more than 80 floats, dancers, firetrucks, Santa and more. Parade starts at The Berlin Welcome Center and proceeds north to the Berlin Fire Company. The judging stand is located on West/Baker Street near the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum. Sponsored by The Town of Berlin and The Berlin Main Street Program. Emcee will be Big Al Reno from Ocean 98.
DEADLINE TO RSVP FOR ANNUAL HOLIDAY LUNCHEON
Held Dec. 14, 11:30 a.m. at the Princess Royale Hotel. The Art League of Ocean City will celebrate the grand finale of its 60th year and awards ceremony. Cost is $45. RSVP by Dec. 7: 410-524-9433.
CPAP MASK FITTING
Atlantic General Hospital’s Sleep Disorders Diagnostic. Center, 9733 Healthway Drive, Berlin. Free mask fitting clinic for patients who are having trouble adjusting to their CPAP equipment. Appointment required: Robin Rohlfing, 410-641-9726.
MAKE & TAKE: HANUKKAH
Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Drop in the library to make a Hanukkah craft. While supplies last. For ages 6 years and older. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org
DIY UGLY SWEATERS
Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 4:30 p.m. Make your own ugly holiday sweater. Bring your own sweater. All other materials will be provided. All ages. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org
12 TOURNAMENTS OF CHRISTMAS
Ocean Downs Casino, 10218 Racetrack Road, Berlin. Slot Tournaments: Dec. 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12. Blackjack Tournaments: Dec. 3, 5, 7, 10, 11. Benefits Toys for Tots. https://www.oceandowns.com/promotions/12-tournaments-of-christmas-2/
BEACH SINGLE 55 PLUS MEET AND GREET Thursdays - Harpoon Hanna’s, 39064 Harpoon Road, Fenwick Island, DE, 4-6 p.m. 302-436-9577, BeachSingles.org.
Crossword answers from page 26
34
Ocean City Today
December 1, 2023 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
DONATIONS
MAINTENANCE HELP in Ocean Pines area. Full or Part Time! Call for an appointment, 410-641-5102.
Small Engine Mechanic Year Round Competitive Wages 443-754-1047
Seeking YR & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555.
Year-Round Room For Rent Ocean Pines $800/month and $200 security. Fully furnished. All utilities included. 443880-2317
1 Office/Retail Space available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft. Call 443-497-4200
Hiring Licensed MD cosmotologist Full-time or part-time. 410-390-3916
RENTALS
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.
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
RENTALS
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. 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 WOC - YR Rental - 5BR, 3.5BA, 3600 sq.ft. on pond. $2950/month and one months security plus utilities. Contact Lou, 410-713-0065. 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
NOW HIRING!! Production Crew for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $20/hr. Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com
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
OFF SEASON RENTALS Utililites Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com 410-289-8581
Yearly & Seasonal Rentals We Welcome Pets 7700 Coastal Hwy 410-524-7700 www.holidayoc.com
ROOMMATES ROOMMATES Room for Rent, Bayside. Available Now. $900/month. $1,800 move in. Text only 443-614-4523. 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. Winter Rental - Ocean City. XL Master bedroom w/private bath. Fully furnished. $600/ month. Includes all utilities. No pets. No smoking. 443880-2486
GET IT RENTED HERE! It’s not too late to advertise your winter rentals. 410-723-6397 www. oceancitytoday. com
COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL Industrial Warehouse. Space: 1500 sq. ft. Masonry construction, 18’ high ceiling, large garage door, bathroom. Route 90/Bishopville. Call 443-497-4200. Commercial Warehouses 600 and 800 sq. ft. spaces West Ocean City and Bishopville, MD Yearly Leases Only
Classified Deadline is Monday @ 5pm
Classifieds 410-723-6397
SERVICES
BUDGET MOVERS 443-664-5797
Call 646-812-1212
LOCAL & EAST COAST MOVING Full Packing Service Piano Movers - Full Service
Classifieds 410-723-6397
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CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK Serving the Newspapers of Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia since 1908.
MARYLAND STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK FOR SALE Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator. $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-855993-0969 MISC. FOR SALE Switch to DISH and get up to a $300 gift card! Plus get the Multisport Pack included for a limited time! Hurry, call for details: 1-855-407-6870.
MISC. SERVICES FREE high-speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet service. Bonus offer: Android tablet FREE with one-time $20 copay. Free shipping & handling. Call Maxsip Telecom today! 1-888-592-5957 HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 877-738-0991.
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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
Maryland, Delaware and D.C.: 106 papers with a circulation of 2.3 million and readership of 4.9 million! For only $495. Deadline is Wednesday of the week prior to publication. Call 410-723-6397.
FT FRONT DESK ADMIN - TOWN OF OCEAN VIEW Candidates must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills; be proficient in Word, Excel, & Outlook, and be able to multi-task & interact with information requests and services in a professional manner. Varied duties and responsibilities will be required. The Town offers an excellent salary and benefits package. EOE Submit resume by Dec. 8, ‘23 to: Town Manager’s Office 201 Central Avenue - 2nd Floor; Ocean View, DE 19970
www. baysideoc. com
Run your business card in our
SERVICE DIRECTORY CALL 410-723-6397 for pricing!
www.oceancitytoday.com Order YOur Classifieds Online!
• Convenient • Quick • No Waiting, No Calls • Days, Nights & Weekends
DECEMBER 1, 2023
PAGE 35
Ocean City Today
DIRECTORY BLINDS & SHADES
CLEANING SERVICES
CONSTRUCTION
ELECTRICIAN
ELECTRICIAN ElEctric
HANDYMAN
EmErGEncy
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M Master Electrician
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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
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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
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Making Your Dream Bath Come True For 20 Years! Specializing in Bathroom Remodels Tub to Shower Conversions Custom Tile Work
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Contact Garth for FREE Estimate! atminc4u@aol.com 410-641-8439
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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JODY PALMISANO 410-629-5600
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POWERWASHING / SOFT WASH POWERWASHING Atlantic Coast Powerwashing Services
Commercial & Residential • Complete Exterior Cleaning Hot Water, Powerwashing & Soft Wash Systems Year round ser vices • Deck Staining w/yearly & seasonal • Decks • Docks rates • Houses • Restaurants • Shopping Centers ices is ad! • Roofs • & More h all ser v t w/ 410-603-3400
Joe Beran/Owner Operator acms1st@gmail.com
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The Area’s #1 Moving Company
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REAL ESTATE
Kim Dixson REDFIN AGENT
Sell for more, pay a 1% listing fee when you buy and sell with Redfin Agents.*
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.
PAGE 36
Ocean City Today
DECEMBER 1, 2023
DIRECTORY ROOFING
ROOFING
YOUR BUSINESS
Your Roofing, Siding & Home Improvement Specialist Since 1989 ROOFING • SIDING • DURADEK • WINDOWS • GUTTERS
Mike Moesle 410-629-1573, Fax: 410-629-1946 mmoesle@shoresidingmd.com www.shoresidingmd.com
*Licensed in MD, DE &VA
Your Business Card Here! Call 410-723-6397
DECEMBER 1, 2023
SUMMARY NOTICE OF BOND SALE $28,410,000* MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF OCEAN CITY GENERAL OBLIGATION MUNICIPAL PURPOSE BONDS OF 2023 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Mayor and City Council of Ocean City (the “City”) will receive electronic bids via PARITY® for the $28,410,000* General Obligation Municipal Purpose Bonds of 2023 (the “Bonds”) until 11:00 a.m., local Ocean City, Maryland time on: Tuesday, December 12, 2023 or on such other date as may be selected by the Mayor. The Bonds will be dated as of the date of delivery and will mature on January 15 in the years 2025 through 2044, inclusive, as more fully described in the Notice of Sale. No bid for less than all of the Bonds will be considered. The Bonds will be awarded based on the lowest interest cost to the City, determined in accordance with the true interest cost (TIC) method. All bids must be accompanied by a good faith deposit in the amount of $568,200, payable by wire transfer to the City, or by a check or surety bond as provided in the Notice of Sale. Copies of the Preliminary Official Statement and the Notice of Sale relating to the Bonds may be obtained from the Finance Director of the City, City Hall, 3rd Street and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842, or from First Tryon Advisors, LLC, 122 Severn Avenue, Annapolis, Maryland 21403 (410-267-8811). *Preliminary, subject to change. OCD-11/23/2t _________________________________ 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
LEGAL ADVERTISING legals@oceancitytoday.net
PAGE 37
Ocean City Today / Public Notices 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 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 _________________________________ 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 _________________________________ VICTORIA L. O'NEILL ESQ. AYRES JENKINS GORDY & ALMAND P A 6200 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 200 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES ESTATE NO. 19984 NOTICE IS GIVEN that the CIRCUIT court of LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA appointed LISA DISHER POWERS whose address is 1322 MOORE PL, SW LEESBURG, VA 20175 G DON WESTFALL whose address is 124 SAWMILL CREEK DRIVE NELLYSFORD, VA 22958 as the CO-EXECUTORS of the Estate of ANNA MILLER DISHER AKA: who died on JULY 29, 2023 domiciled in VIRGINIA, USA. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is VICTORIA L O'NEILL whose address is 6200 COASTAL HWY STE 200 OCEAN
CITY, MD 21842. 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 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 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 11/23/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19983 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF DOLORES NEULAND Notice is given that Angele Valentine, 3 Tuxedo Court, Marlton, NJ 08053, was on November 17, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dolores Neuland who died on September 26, 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 17th 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. Angele Valentine Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for
PAGE 38
DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today / Public Notices
Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: November 23, 2023 OCD-11/23/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BOARD OF PORT WARDENS Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 106 ”Waterways,” Article II – “Shoreline Development” of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Port Wardens Ordinance of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland. Thursday, December 14, 2023 At 2:00 p.m. PW 23-105 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings a maximum channelward extension of 33’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 423 14TH ST UNIT 302 (Slip 59) Parcel # 3486 -302S -2B in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Whitehead Enterprises 1, LLC APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc. PW 23-106 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift with associated pilings a maximum channelward extension of 26’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 153 NEWPORT BAY DR UNIT 6 Parcel # 2598A-6 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Debra & Douglas May APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc. PW 23-107 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift with associated pilings a maximum channelward extension of 35’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 419 14TH ST UNIT 68 (Slip 69) Parcel # 3486 -68 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Mario Aguilar, TR APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc. PW 23-108 A request has been submitted to dredge a 10,421 square foot area at 5’ MLW and to deposit approximately 998 cubic yards of dredged material on an approved disposal site located at Parcel 185, Friendship Rd., Berlin, Md; and to provide for periodic maintenance dredging for 6 years. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 302 1ST ST Parcel # 3956 -4 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. Owner: Bay Lizard Estate, LLC Applicant: Stephen Carullo, Jr. PW 23-109 A request has been submitted to install one 13’ x 13’ boat lift on existing pilings, maximum
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 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ channelward extension of 24’ not to exceed past existing pier. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 778 94TH ST SLIP 26 Parcel # 9647 -26 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Patrick Smith APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, Inc. PW 23-110 A request has been submitted to replace an existing 5’ x20’ dock and install one 6.5’ x 13’ floating dock, maximum channelward extension of 13.5’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 507 SEAWEED LN Parcel # 9930A-4 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: James Baldwin APPLICANT: Pristine Permitting, LLC PW 23-111 A request has been submitted to install 77’ of replacement vinyl bulkhead maximum channelward extension of 18” and to install 2 PWC lifts on existing pilings, maximum 7’ channelward extension. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 513 136TH ST Parcel # 9866A-34 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. OWNER: Michael Melvin, Sr. APPLICANT: Ocean Services of DE, Inc. OCD-11/30/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer for a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Rachel Sibony, 10701 Admirals Lassie Lane, Berlin, Maryland 21811.
For: West OC Taphouse, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Taphouse West 12513 Ocean Gateway Ocean City, Maryland 21842 Formerly: Hogfin, LLC There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: December 11, 2023 @ 1:15 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-11/30/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer for a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Jason Aaron Hamilton, 14104 Dukes Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842. For: Coastal Creations OCMD, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Coastal Creations 7805 Coastal Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21842 Formerly: James Family Hospitality Group, LLC There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: December 11, 2023 @ 1:25 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-11/30/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Class: "D" BEER License: 7 Day, By: Robert Deegan, 8911 Harness Way, Bowie, Maryland 20715; Vince Wright, 112 Ocean Aisle Circle #301, Salisbury, Maryland 21804; Michael W. Glavich, 12907 Vista Bay Lane, Ocean City, Maryland 21842. For: Fin City Brewing, LLC For the premises known as and located at: TIA: Fin City Tap Room 12911 Ocean Gateway, Unit 206 Ocean City, Maryland 21842 There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: December 11, 2023 @ 1:40 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-11/30/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer of a Class: "B" BEER-WINE LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Andrew J. Zanowic, 12604 Whisper Trace Drive, Ocean City, Maryland 21842; Jamy C. Davy, 9925 Stephen Decatur Highway, E2, Ocean City, Maryland 21842; Jeffrey Hamer, 13 Draper Drive, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971. For: WOC Watermans, LLC For the premises known as and lo-
DECEMBER 1, 2023 cated at: T/A: Waterman's Seafood Company 12505 Ocean Gateway Ocean City, Maryland 21842 Formerly: JD Financial Services, Inc. There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: December 11, 2023 @ 1:50 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-11/30/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a "B" B/W/L 7 Day and Request to designate as Multiple License #1 for a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Peter S. Elias, 11604 Coastal Highway, Unit 1010, Ocean City, Maryland 21842; Karamjeet Singh, 11700 Coastal Highway, Apt. 1101, Ocean City, Maryland 21842. For: Seven Star Hospitality of OC, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Sand & Cedar Taverna 11070 Cathell Road Berlin, Maryland 21811 There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: December 11, 2023 @ 2:05 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-11/30/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer & Downgrade from a Class "D" to "B" and Request to designate as Multiple License #3 for a Class: "B" BEERWINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Peter S. Elias, 11604 Coastal Highway, Unit 1010, Ocean City, Maryland 21842; Karamjeet Singh, 11700 Coastal Highway, Apt. 1101, Ocean City, Maryland 21842. For: Seven Star Hospitality of OC, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Bistro Cotiere 1706 Philadelphia Avenue Ocean City, Maryland 21842 Formerly: Cowboy Coast Hospitality Group, Inc. There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: December 11, 2023 @ 2:15 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-11/30/2t _________________________________
Ocean City Today / Public Notices
NOTICE OF PROPOSED CHANGE IN ZONING SOUTH SIDE OF MD ROUTE 589 (RACETRACK ROAD) NORTH OF MD ROUTE 90 (OCEAN EXPRESSWAY) OPPOSITE THE OCEAN PINES NORTH GATE
ernment Center, One West Market Street, Room 1201, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863 Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. and 4:30 P.M. (except holidays), at (410) 632-1200 as well as at www.co.worcester.md.us. THE WORCESTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OCD-11/30/2t _________________________________
THIRD TAX DISTRICT WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND Pursuant to Section 1-113 of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, Rezoning Case No. 443 has been filed by Hugh Cropper, IV on behalf of William Ayres and Linda Ayres, property owners, for an amendment to the Official Zoning Maps to change approximately 27.25 acres of land located on the south side of MD Route 589 (Racetrack Road), north of MD Route 90 (Ocean Expressway) and opposite the North Gate of the Ocean Pines Subdivision, in the Third Tax District of Worcester County, Maryland, from A-1 Agricultural District to 25.25 acres of A-2 Agricultural District and 2.0 acres of C-2 General Commercial District. The Planning Commission has given an unfavorable recommendation to the rezoning application. Pursuant to Sections 1-113 and 1114 of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, the County Commissioners will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. IN THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ MEETING ROOM WORCESTER COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER – ROOM 1101 ONE WEST MARKET STREET SNOW HILL, MARYLAND 21863 At said public hearing the County Commissioners will consider the rezoning application, the staff file on Rezoning Case No. 443 and the recommendation of the Planning Commission, any proposed restrictions on the rezoning, other appropriate restrictions, conditions or limitations as may be deemed by them to be appropriate to preserve, improve, or protect the general character and design of the lands and improvements being zoned or rezoned or of the surrounding or adjacent lands and improvements, and the advisability of reserving the power and authority to approve or disapprove the design of buildings, construction, landscaping or other improvements, alterations and changes made or to be made on the subject land or lands to assure conformity with the intent and purpose of applicable State laws and regulations and the County Zoning Ordinance. Maps of the petitioned area, the staff file on Rezoning Case No. 443 and the Planning Commission’s recommendation, which will be entered into record at the public hearing, are on file and available to view electronically by contacting the Department of Development, Review and Permitting, Worcester County Gov-
TOWN OF BERLIN
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
RFP # 2024 – 01 Heron Park Building Demolition Due Date: Wednesday, January 3, 2024 Time: 3:00 PM EST The Town of Berlin is seeking Proposals for building demolition of designated areas, removal of debris on the interior, and site clearing of designated areas. Work also includes closing up of existing openings in buildings to remain and flashing/sealing the edges of roof lines exposed after demolition, and all other work as described in the plans and specifications entitled Heron Park Building Demolition, prepared by Davis, Bowen, & Friedel Inc, dated November 2023. There is a mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting scheduled for Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at 11:00 AM. Qualified contractors are encouraged to visit the Town of Berlin website at berlinmd.gov/government/requestfor-proposals/ or contact Town Administrator Mary Bohlen at 4 1 0 6 4 1 4314/mbohlen@berlinmd.gov for the official RFP. EEO. OCD-11/30/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING WORCESTER COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS AGENDA THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2023 Pursuant to the provisions of the Worcester County Zoning Ordinance, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in-person before the Board of Zoning Appeals for Worcester County, in the Board Room (Room 1102) on the first floor of the Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland. 6:30 p.m. Case No. 23-76, on the lands of Kayvan Bahrami, requesting a special exception to allow a 6foot-tall fence in a front yard setback, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), & ZS 1-305(k)(3) located at 9627 W. 4th St., Tax Map 27, Parcel 500, Block J, Lot 6, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland. 6:35 p.m. Case No. 23-75, on the lands of Thomas Laird, Sr., requesting after-the-fact variances to the right side yard setback from 3 feet to
PAGE 39 1.79 feet (encroaches 1.21 feet) for an existing mobile home, to the rear yard setback from 5 feet to 2.05 feet (encroaches 2.95 feet) for a landing and steps and to the front yard setback from 10 feet to 6.43 (encroaches 3.57 feet) for an existing open deck in a Campground Subdivision, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(4), ZS 1-318(d) and ZS 1-305, located at 269 Timberline Circle, Tax Map 16, Parcel 90, Lot 269, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland. 6:40 p.m. Case No. 23-79, on the lands of Bali Hi Park, Inc, on the application of Sandra Sale, requesting an after-the-fact variance to the front yard setback from 10 feet to 8.6 feet (encroaches 1.4 feet) for an existing RV, in a Co-operative Campground, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1-318(e) and ZS 1305, located at 12342 St. Martins Neck Road, Tax Map 10, Parcel 32, Lot 103, Tax District 5, Worcester County, Maryland. 6:45 p.m. Case No. 23-80, on the lands of Bruce McConkey, requesting an after-the-fact variance revision to the front yard setback from 30 feet to 24.68 feet (encroaches 5.32 feet) for an existing front porch with stairs in the R-2 Suburban Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1206(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at 12405 Snug Harbor Road, Tax Map 33, Parcel 346, Section A, Lot 79, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland. 6:50 p.m. Case No. 23-78, on the lands of Randall and Anderson Hastings, requesting a special exception to expand a surface mining operation in the A-1 Agricultural District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1116(c)(3), ZS 1-201(c)(15), and ZS 1330, located on the south side of Ironshire Station Road, about 351 feet west of Shire Drive, Tax Map 32, Parcel 360, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland. 6:55 p.m. Case No. 23-77, on the lands of 12475 Sea Oaks, LLC, on the application of Hugh Cropper, IV, requesting a special exception to construct a freestanding, non-monument sign in the C-1 Neighborhood Commercial District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(3), ZS 1209 and ZS 1-324(c)(4)B.4, located at 12475 Sea Oaks Lane, Tax Map 26, Parcel 473, Lot B, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland. 7:00 p.m. Case No. 23-81, on the lands of Russell Properties LLC, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting two variances to the front yard setback off of Wilson Ave, one from 25 feet to 21.07 feet (to encroach 3.93 feet) for a proposed accessory apartment and the other from 25 feet to 4.24 feet (to encroach 20.76 feet) for a proposed 3rd floor cantilever on the west end of the existing house, a variance to the front yard setback from Madison Ave. from 30 feet to 16.11 feet (to encroach 13.89 feet) for a proposed cantilever on the east side of the house and a variance to the side yard setback of 6 feet to 4 feet (to encroach 2 feet) for the same east side cantilever in the R-3 Multi-family Residential District, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4), ZS 1207(b)(2) and ZS 1-305, located at
PAGE 40
DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today / Public Notices
13444 Madison Ave., Tax Map 5, Parcel 1, Lot 141, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland. 7:05 p.m. Case No. 23-82, on the lands of River Run Development, on the application of Hugh Cropper, IV, requesting a modification to add boat slips to an existing community pier extending beyond 125 feet channelward, pursuant to Natural Resources Code §§ NR 2-102(e)(1) and Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(n)(2), located at 11605 Masters Lane, Tax Map 15, Parcel 126, Tax District 3, Worcester County, Maryland. 7:10 p.m. Case No. 23-83, on the lands of Michael Ewing, on the application of Kristina Watkowski, requesting an after-the-fact variance to the left side yard setback from 3 feet to 2.95 feet (encroaches .05 feet), an after-the-fact variance to the right side yard setback from 7 feet to 6.56 feet (encroaches .44 feet) for an existing house and for a variance to the left side yard setback from 3 feet to .92 feet (to encroach 2.08 feet) for a proposed chimney in a Residential Planned Community, pursuant to Zoning Code §§ ZS 1-116(c)(4) and ZS 1-315, located at 12369 Hidden Bay Drive, Tax Map 33, Parcel 281, Lot 41, Tax District 10, Worcester County, Maryland. OCD-11/30/2t _________________________________ MICHAEL B. MATHERS ESQ. WEBB, CORNBROOKS, WILBER, VORHIS, DOUSE & MATHERS, LLP P.O. BOX 910 - 115 BROAD STREET SALISBURY, MD 21803-0910
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 19970 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOANANN JACKSON SWIFT Notice is given that Julie A. Betz, 10515 Brighton Road, Ocean City, MD 21842; and Richard M. Betz, 10515 Brighton Road, Ocean City, MD 21842, were on November 21, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joanann Jackson Swift who died on September 26, 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 21st 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 cred-
PUBLIC RELEASE CMA Kids Care announces participation in the Child and Adult Care Food Program for Child Care Centers. Meals will be provided to all enrolled participants regardless of race, color, sex, age, disability, or national origin, and there will be no discrimination in the course of meal service and access to facilities. Eligibility for free or reduced-price meal reimbursement is based on the following annual income eligibility guidelines effective from July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024. Meals will be provided at the sites listed below: Household Size
Free Meals Year
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 For each additional family member add …
Reduced-Price Meals
Month Twice Per Every Two Week Month Weeks
Year
Month Twice Per Every Two Week Month Weeks
$18,954 $1,580 25,636 2,137 32,318 2,694 39,000 3,250 45,682 3,807 52,364 4,364 59,046 4,921 65,728 5,478
$790 1,069 1,347 1,625 1,904 2,182 2,461 2,739
$729 986 1,243 1,500 1,757 2,014 2,271 2,528
$365 493 622 750 879 1,007 1,136 1,264
$26,973 $2,248 36,482 3,041 45,991 3,833 55,500 4,625 65,009 5,418 74,518 6,210 84,027 7,003 93,536 7,795
$1,124 1,521 1,917 2,313 2,709 3,105 3,502 3,898
$1,038 1,404 1,769 2,135 2,501 2,867 3,232 3,598
$519 702 885 1,068 1,251 1,434 1,616 1,799
$6,682
$279
$257
$129
$9,509
$397
$366
$183
$557
$793
Site Name(s): CMA Kids Care Address of Each Site: 11070 Cathell Rd. Suite 2A, Berlin, MD 21811 Name of Contact Person for Agency: Jessica Tidd Telephone Number: 410-208-4100 In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. Program information may be made available in languages other than English. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication to obtain program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact the responsible state or local agency that administers the program or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. To file a program discrimination complaint, a Complainant should complete a Form AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form which can be obtained online at: https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ad-3027.pdf, from any USDA office, by calling (866) 6329992, or by writing a letter addressed to USDA. The letter must contain the complainant’s name, address, telephone number, and a written description of the alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the nature and date of an alleged civil rights violation. The completed AD-3027 form or letter must be submitted to USDA by: 1. mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or 2. fax: (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or 3. email: Program.Intake@usda.gov OCD-11/30/1t itor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Julia A. Betz Richard M. Betz Personal Representatives True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: November 30, 2023 OCD-11/30/3t _________________________________
GEOFFREY L. FORMAN COHEN AND FORMAN, LLC 30 E. PADONIA ROAD, SUITE 500 TIMONIUM, MD 21093
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of HOLLIS JACKSON TURNER Estate No. 19990 Notice is given that THEODORE EUGENE SINEES JR whose address is 12207 STONEY BATTER ROAD, KINGSVILLE, MD 21087 was on NOVEMBER 22, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of HOLLIS JACKSON TURNER who died on SEPTEMBER 21, 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 22nd 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
DECEMBER 1, 2023 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-11/30/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110 of the Code of Ocean City, Maryland, hereinafter referred to as the Code, same being the Zoning Ordinance for Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that public hearings will be conducted by the Board of Zoning Appeals for Ocean City, Maryland in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on Baltimore Avenue and Third Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland on: Thursday, December 14, 2023 At 6:00 p.m. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Power, of the Code, an appeal of Section 110-94(5) has been filed to request the renewal of a special outdoor display of merchandise exception. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 1A, Block 121, of the Isle of Wight Land Company Plat. It is further described as being on the northwest corner of Coastal Highway and Route 90 and is locally known as 6201 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: BK MERCHANDISING, INC. (BZA 2668 #23-09400015) At 6:10 p.m. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an appeal of Section 110-94(2)(b) has been filed to request a parking exception of 4 spaces for the construction of a new duplex. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 33 of the Runaway Bay Townhouse Plat. It is further described as being on the west side of Penguin Drive and is locally known as 821 Penguin Drive, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: JERRY FORD (BZA 2672 #23-09400016) At 6:20 p.m. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(3), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-95(1)(a) - A) requesting a variance for both the 10’ north and south side yard setbacks in order to revise previously approved site plan PZ File #2118100017 for a 20-room hotel to be built at 608 Baltimore Avenue (1); B) requesting a variance to Section 110369, Landscaping, in the R-3A, Mod-
Ocean City Today / Public Notices erate Residential zoning district, in accordance with both Section 110831.26 and Section 30553(c)(8)(h)(ii), to the required five-foot perimeter landscape strip on the east side of the properties known as 505, 509 and 511 Baltimore Avenue (2), (3), and (4); and Section 30-553(c)(8)(h)(iii), to a twofoot, six-inch landscape area provided at adjacent properties, along the north property line at 511 Baltimore Avenue (4). C) The applicant’s final request is that the Board of Zoning Appeals lift an approval condition imposed with BZA 2593 #2109500012 that two efficiency units at 505 Baltimore Avenue (2) be removed from rental since parking is now provided according to Code. The sites of the appeal are described as (1) Part of Lot 3, Block 7N of the Sinepuxent Beach Company Plat; further described as located on the east side of Baltimore Avenue and west side of Washington Lane, and locally known as 608 Baltimore Avenue; (2) Lot 9 and part of Lot 10, locally known as 505 Baltimore Avenue; (3) Part of Lots 10 and 11, locally known as 509 Baltimore Avenue; and (4) Part of Lot 11, locally known as 511 Baltimore Avenue, all in Block 19N of the Sinepuxent Beach Company Plat; further described as located on the
west side of Baltimore Avenue and east side of Wilmington Lane in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: OLYMPIC 1 APARTMENTS LLC. C/O VANGJEL TELO (BZA 2673 #23-09500018) Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall. Christopher Rudolf, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-11/30/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of MICHAEL JOSEPH GOUGH Estate No. 19988 Notice is given that MICHAEL K. GOUGH whose address is 68 PELTON AVENUE, STATEN ISLAND, NY 10310 was on NOVEMBER 20, 2023 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MICHAEL JOSEPH GOUGH who died on MARCH 19, 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.
PAGE 41 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 20th 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-11/30/3t _________________________________
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DECEMBER 1, 2023 special connection, and are engaged
BUSINESS BRIEFS
New nurse practitioner Hudson Behavioral Health has hired Alexandra Richards as its psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. According to a new release, the position new within the organization and will allow expanded prescribing and treatment servA. Richards ices. In her role at Hudson Behavioral Health, Richards will collaborate with both the clinical team, led by Director of Clinical Operations Susan Forrest, and the mental health team, led by Psychiatrist Efigenio Leynes Bautista. Richards will play a pivotal role in the opening of the new outpatient facility planned for early 2024. “I first met Alexandra when she interned with us in 2021, and quickly realized how dedicated she is to the mental health field,” Leslie Brown, the CEO of Hudson Behavioral Health, said in the release. “Our plans for the future are ambitious and exciting, and I know she will be an asset to our success.” Richards earned a bachelor of science in nursing from Del Tech in 2018, and master of science in nursing from Walden University in 2022. As part of her studies to become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Richards interned at Lower Shore Clinic and Inspiration Health Services.
Neurosurgery assistant Cindy Lin was recently welcomed to TidalHealth Neurosurgery in Salisbury. Lin completed a bachelor of science in
bert College in De Pere, Wisconsin, and a master of science in physician assistant studies at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in Philadelphia. Lin is an active American Academy of Physician Assistants member. During her leisure time, she enjoys various hobbies and pastimes including baking, cooking, trying new foods, travCindy Lin eling and playing with her cat, Martin. Lin is a certified physician assistant who practices at TidalHealth Neurosurgery at 1630 Woodbrooke Drive in Salisbury. To schedule an appointment, call 410-912-6330.
New health professional Chesapeake Health Care recently welcomed Jessica Stephenson as a mental health therapist to to its Salisbury location. According to a news release, Stephenson has a bachelor of psychology from Liberty University and a masters in social work from Salisbury University. Her background includes working in nursing homes, rehousing programs, hospitals, mobile crisis and school setJ. Stephenson tings. The release said Stephenson is passionate about helping adolescents and adults cope with various challenges, including anxiety, depression, life transitions,
Eastern Shore Primary Care & Wellness employees pose with Flo Brotzman from SVN| Miller Commercial Real Estate outside of a Salisbury building the primary care facility is moving into. OCEAN CITY TODAY/ SUBMITTED PHOTO
and low self-esteem.
New primary care practice Flo Brotzman, senior advisor with The Hanna Team at SVN | Miller Commercial Real Estate, recently leased 1505 S Salisbury Blvd. to Eastern Shore Primary Care & Wellness. The practice will be accepting new patients, and offer DOT physicals, urine drug testing, and spa services. There will be three full-time nurse practitioners and one physician most insurances will be accepted. A ribbon cutting is set from 4-5 p.m., Dec. 19. Once the practice is open, the hours will be 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Tree of Life award TidalHealth Peninsula Regional officials recently announce that Melissa Lewis is the hospital’s Tree of Life Award recipient for November. The award honors respiratory therapists who provide outstanding and excellent care to patients, make a
with the care team to ensure the best outcomes for their patients.Melissa was nominated not once, but twice, for this award. TidalHealth officials appreciate Lewis and all of the hospital’s respiratory therapists who provide excepMelissa Lewis tional care to patients throughout the health system.
Respiratory care award Dr. Robert L. Joyner Jr., the director of the Richard A. Henson Research Institute at TidalHealth, was recently presented with the National Board for Respiratory Care’s highest honor, the Sister Mary Yvonne Jenn, CRNA, RRT Lifetime Achievement Award, at the 2023 American Association for Respiratory Care Congress in Nashville, Tennessee. The award is given annually to an individual who epitomizes the respiratory care profession and conContinued on Page 43
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DECEMBER 1, 2023
PAGE 43
Ocean City Today
REAL ESTATE REPORT
New home statistics for October By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Dec. 1, 2023) According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s latest news release, privately owned housing units authorized by building permits in October were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.487 million. This is 1.1 percent above the revised September rate of 1.471 million, but is 4.4 percent below the October 2022 rate of 1.555 million. Privately owned housing starts in
October were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.372 million. This is 4.2 percent below the October 2022 rate of 1.432 million. Privately owned housing completions in October were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.410 million. This is 4.6 percent (±11.6 percent)* below the revised September estimate of 1.478 million, but is 4.6 percent (±13.2 percent)* above the October 2022 rate of 1.348 million. In our local market, Sussex County has a much higher rate of new construction than Worcester County. Here is a breakdown of some of the local stats for new construction based on data from Bright MLS:
• Sussex County currently has 588 fee simple new construction homes for sale; Worcester County has 37 • Sussex County average price for new construction active listings is $585,307; Worcester County is $689,962 • Sussex County has had 1,501 new construction homes sold in the past 12 months with an average price of $651,566; Worcester County has had 119 sold with an average price of $601,556.
respiratory therapist, clinical instructor, director of clinical education, and the program director at Salisbury University from 2003 to 2019. Dr. R.L. Joyner, Jr. As director of the Richard A. Henson Research Institute at TidalHealth, Joyner is responsible for the execution of clin-
ical trials from start to finish. He is also responsible for providing research education across the TidalHealth system. Under his leadership, the research Institute has transformed from a siloed oncology research effort to what it is today: a thriving, system-level resource that provides opportunities that extend care offerings for TidalHealth providers.
Lauren Bunting is Broker of Record with Keller Williams Realty of Delmarva in Ocean City.
BUSINESS BRIEFS Continued from Page 42 tributes significantly to the respiratory care credentialing system during their career. Joyner earned a bachelor of science in respiratory therapy from Salisbury University and a PhD in Physiology from the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth in Hanover, New Hampshire. He has been a respiratory therapist since 1988. Over the years, he’s held many roles in the respiratory world including bedside
REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE NEWE PRIC
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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 $380,000
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609 HARBOUR DRIVE MONTEGO BAY OCEAN CITY Take a look at 609 Harbour Drive located right on the direct bayfront. This sought after location is perfectly situated between the open bayfront and the 8-acre wildlife sanctuary/park area. You'll have breathtaking sunsets from the open deck of this 2-bedroom 2 full bath home. Bayfront boardwalk to your own boat dock. Close to shopping, dining, the beach, Ocean City's 58acre Northside Park (home of the 4th of July fireworks), and all community amenities: 2 inground swimming pools, 1 kiddie pool, 2 tennis courts, pickle ball & shuffleboard courts, 9-hole minigolf course, 5-acre pond, blacktop walking/jogging trail and a bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers. You won't want to miss this one! $749,500. Sold Furnished.
13901 Coastal Hwy., Suite 8, Ocean City, MD
Larry E. Holdren II Realtor, GRI Associate Broker Direct Cell Phone: 1-443-366-4091 Email: MCSLLC@HOTMAIL.COM
For More Information Call 800-252-2223 • 410-250-2700 www.larryholdrenrealestate.com • email: ocmdhre@gmail.com
PRICE REDUCED Located in the sought after community of Montego Bay and situated on an oversized corner lot, this 2-bedroom 2-bathroom home is being sold fully furnished and is ready for you to start enjoying! Upgrades include all new plumbing (2018), all new insulation underneath (2018), new deck boards (2021), and new porch enclosure windows (2022). Conveniently located within walking distance to shopping, dining, the beach, the bus stop, and Ocean City's 58-acre Northside Park, home of the 4th of July Fireworks, Winterfest of Lights, and much more. Community amenities include 2 inground swimming pools, 1 kiddie pool, 2 tennis courts, a shuffleboard court, pickle ball courts, a 9-hole mini-golf course, an 8-acre wildlife sanctuary/park area that includes a 5-acre pond with blacktop walking/jogging path, and a bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers...all for a low HOA fee of $396.00 a year!! $319,900
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NEW CONSTRUCTION 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.
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PAGE 44
DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today
FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
A sign at the entrance to Frontier Town off of Route 611 in Berlin.
Frontier Town recognized at hospitality conference expo (Dec. 1, 2023) Blue Water Development recently announced that Sun Outdoors Frontier Town off of Route 611 in Berlin has earned a Mega Park of the Year Award at the 2023 Outdoor Hospitality Conference & Expo in Kansas City. According to a news release, the award is a testament to Frontier Town’s “dedication to providing an exceptional outdoor hospitality experience to its guests.” The release said the Westernthemed park, founded in 1959, has been a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, campers and nature lovers for years. Visitors are treated to daily Western themed shows by performers from throughout the country. Along with the performances and reenactments, the park offers a ropes and zip line courses, as well as camping. The campground features a recently renovated mini-golf course, full-service ice cream parlor, an oversized arcade, restaurants, stores, boat docks and piers, jet ski rentals, daily activities, nature trails, charter boast fishing, a dog park and more. “We are thrilled to receive the Mega Park of the Year Award at OHCE2023,” Frontier Ton General Manager Nicole Burrell said in the release. “This recognition recognizes our dedication to delivering memorable outdoor experiences that exceed our guests’ expectations. Our gratitude goes out to our incredible staff, our loyal guests, and everyone who has contributed to Sun Outdoors Frontier Town’s outstanding reputation.” The awards ceremony took place on Nov. 8 in Kansas City, Missouri, where Blue Water Development was presented the award in front of an audience of industry leaders, and fellow park operators. The award was presented by Outdoor Hospitality Industry, formerly
known as the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds. The release said the award acknowledges Blue Water Development’s continuous efforts to enhance park facilities and amenities. For more information about Sun
Hardwire wins ‘23 rural impact award for economic dev. (Dec. 1, 2023) Members of the Rural Maryland Council recently announced that Hardwire, a manufacturing organization in Worcester County, was selected to receive the Outstanding Rural Economic Development Award at the 2023 Maryland Rural Impact Awards. According to a news release, the awards, hosted by the Rural Maryland Council, recognize individuals and organizations that have made noteworthy contributions to communities throughout rural Maryland. The awards ceremony was held Nov.13, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Annapolis. Hardwire, a HUBZone Small Business based in Pocomoke City, specializes in protective armor systems for military, law enforcement and civilian applications. The company has created a number of jobs and significantly impacted economic development through innovative and creative solutions, according to the release. The release added that the company’s commitment to a life-saving mission, demonstrated by the development of protective armor systems, caught “the attention and admiraSee CO. Page 45
DECEMBER 1, 2023
PAGE 45
Ocean City Today
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Stuffed mushrooms always classic By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Dec. 1, 2023) Time has a way of embracing the truth and allowing our most inner thoughts to become perfectly clear. As we prepare for the biggest holiday, it is imperative to keep things in perspective. Stress is at an all time high. Decorating, shopping and cooking can test one’s patience and sanity. At 65, lugging nine big containers of decorations down the stairs with three kitty cats playing peek a boo is exhausting to say the least. But something as simple as unpacking these cherished boxes can become a bittersweet moment. Christmas ornaments, like food, are
associated with memories and these recollections are the essence of life. Some of our family’s loved ones are no longer with us and I could very easily succumb to the moment of sadness. But I realize that even if they are not here, their love and compassion will always be a part of me. And it is this spice of the past that flavors the present and guides my future. Stuffed mushrooms are not only a family favorite but an American classic. You can stuff them with almost anything. Whether you are a vegetarian or a meat lover, this delectable finger food is a great option for small or large gatherings. The Eastern Shore is known for its blue crabs and is a delectable filling for stuffed mushrooms. Yes, crab meat is pricy but you are only adding a small amount into the cavity of the mushroom, which makes it very affordable.
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The first and foremost question is, “What type of mushroom should one use?” There are many choices when choosing the type of mushroom for stuffing. If you are going to be making stuffed mushrooms as an appetizer, See PROPER Page 47
Co. headquarted in Pocomoke City Continued from Page 44 tion” of members of the Rural Maryland Council. Hardwire CEO George Tunis expressed his gratitude for the award and recognition in the release. “We are honored to receive the 2023 Maryland Rural Impact Award for Outstanding Rural Economic Development,” he said. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and innovative spirit of the entire Hardwire team. At Hardwire, we believe in the transformative power of technology, collaboration, and community support. This award is a reflection of our commitment to not only creating jobs and driving economic development but also mak-
ing a meaningful impact on the wellbeing of our community.” Supporters of Hardwire’s nomination include Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38), Worcester Commissioner Caryn Abbott, Worcester County Workforce Development Specialist Nancy Schwendeman, and Melanie Pursel, the director of Worcester County Tourism and Economic Development. Hardwire also actively engages with local businesses, supports education initiatives, and has played helped address challenges posed by the pandemic by producing over three million face shields and providing jobs to over 100 Marylanders, the release said. The company also do-
nated more than 1,700 Emergency Response Shields to schools in Worcester, Wicomico and Somerset counties for active shooter protection.
302-537-4500 DrLoisJames.com 17 Atlantic Ave, Ste. 4 Route 26 • Ocean View (Next to Oceanova)
Makes A Great Gift!
A companion to Bunk Mann’s best selling “Vanishing Ocean City,” Ghosts in the Surf features Ocean City Memories from the summer of 1945 to the spring of 2019. With over 700 photos and 340 pages, this hardbound coffee table book with cover art by Paul McGehee is something you do not want to pass up! There are various specials sections throughout the book including lost buildings of Ocean City, the March Storm of 1962, Frontier Town, Trimper’s Rides, Shanty Town, Hurricane’s Gloria and Sandy, The White Marlin Open, Surfing, the Ocean City Beach Patrol, Phillip’s Crab House, the Commander Hotel, the Segregation Era, the Arson fires of the 1970s and so much more!
BOOKS AVAILABLE AT THESE LOCATIONS: Park Place Jewelers M.R. Ducks Copy Central The Buzzed Word Toy Town/Snow Hill OC Chamber of Commerce Ocean Gallery OC Art League Mann & Gray Insurance Caprichos Books Bay Country Shop Kitty’s Flowers Atlantic Beverage Center Victorian Charm Malibu’s Surf Shop
OC Lifesaving Museum Fager’s Island Donaway Furniture Mann Properties Seacrets Crabs to Go Wockenfuss Candies Berlin Auto Wash
Also Available Online at www.vanishingoc.com
PAGE 46
Ocean City Today
DECEMBER 1, 2023
COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS CHURCH MEALS (Far left) Volunteers serve turkey and fixings to community members on Thanksgiving Day at the Ocean City Baptist Church downtown. A total more than 700 dine-in and takeout turkey dinners were handed out to local community members throughout the day. (Left) Volunteer Barb Myers, of Ocean Pines, washes dishes during the Thanksgiving dinner. SUBMITTED PHOTOS/ OCEAN CITY TODAY
HONORING VETERANS On Veterans Day, members of the Worcester County Garden Club placed a wreath at the Worcester County Veterans Memorial in appreciation of veterans, currently serving military personnel, and their families. Pictured, from left, are Veterans Affairs Committee cochairs Karen Trigger and Susan Fletcher with the wreath at the Blue Star Memorial marker. SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OCEAN CITY TODAY
PHOTO COURTESY DAVIS J. LANDIS SR.
DAWG TEAM Members Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City Dawg Team pose for a picture during one of the group’s Halloween events. The Dawg Team is made up of members who cook and sell concessions for fundraisers and Ocean Pines events throughout the year.
PAINTED TREES The after school art club at Berlin Intermediate School, an outreach program of the Art League of Ocean City, recently painted trees as their art project under the guidance of Joanne Guilfoil. (Far let) Emmie Smith poses with her finished painting. (Left) Kaleb Gordon poses with his finished painting. SUBMITTED PHOTOS/ OCEAN CITY TODAY
DECEMBER 1, 2023
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Ocean City Today
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Members of the Pine Tones Chorus pose during their Christmas concert last year.
Pine Tones Christmas concert slated Dec. 8 (Dec. 1, 2023) Members of the Pine Tones Chorus will hold their annual Christmas concert at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 8, at the Atlantic United Methodist Church in Ocean City on Baltimore Ave. and Fourth Street. The concert, “A Very Jazzy Christmas,” will feature “spirited and syncopated selections as well as some with dream-like harmonies,” according to a news release.
“My favorite song is our arrangement of ‘It Came Upon the Midnight Clear’ with its jazzy, spirited sound,” Chorus President, Dave Holloway said in the release. Other songs set to be performed include “Perfect Christmas Night” from the movie “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” and a “rollicking version” of “Joy to the World.” From “A Charlie Brown Christmas” comes the song “Christmas Time is
Here,” a well-known popular theme. Other songs reflecting mellow, contemporary harmonies will include “White Christmas” and “I’ll be Home for Christmas.” The Pine Tones Chorus is made up of about 50 singers from Ocean Pines, Ocean City, and nearby areas. The chorus is under the direction of Jenny and Pete Anderson. Guest musicians will accompany the chorus with Tom Baione play-
ing string bass and Frank Pasqualino adding percussion. Admission is free and an offering will be received. After the concert, guests may enjoy refreshments in the church social hall. The Pine Tones Chorus has been entertaining local audiences in the Ocean Pines and Ocean City areas since 1984. For more information, call Holloway at 410-641-5672, or Jenny Anderson at
Proper prep important for retaining flavors Continued from Page 45 baby bella (cremini) are the best. They have a delicious umami flavor, great texture, and are a natural vessel for the stuffing. Prepping the mushrooms is very important. Mushrooms have a lot of natural juices and their meaty flesh also absorbs liquids. One might be wondering why that is important? Some home cooks soak their mushrooms in water during the cleaning process. The mushrooms will absorb the water which in turns dilutes the natural flavor of the mushroom. Instead, give the mushrooms a quick but thorough rinse and wipe with a damp paper towel to remove any remaining dirt stuck around the caps and stems. Removing the stem is a must and is easy to do. Simply place your fingers on the stem and wiggle back and forth a few times and it will release from the body of the mushroom. If the entire stem does not come out, use a small spoon and scoop the remaining stem. You can either discard the stems or freeze for stock. The cheese mixture is simple but delicious. Cream cheese, parmesan, cheddar, garlic, pimentos, parsley and chopped chives. The cream cheese must be room temperature. If not, the mixture will be stiff and your gorgeous lump crab meat will become a stringy
mess during the mixing process. Any type of crab meat will do, but Christmas is a special time of the year and lump fits the occasion. If you are using lump, fold it into the cheese mixture to preserve the hunks. It will break down some, this cannot be avoided. The other alternative is to take a teaspoon of the cheese mixture and mold it around the lump crabmeat. This will be an impressive bite, but the preparation does take more time and finesse. A combination of panko breadcrumbs and butter is the final step. The butter enhances the browning process and adds texture to the stuffed mushrooms. A light dusting of Old Bay can be added as a tasty garnish, but this step is optional. In closing, stuffed mushrooms are a perfect passed hor d’oeuvre for the holidays and can be made at the last minute. Stuffed mushrooms with crab meat are decadent and indicative of how locals celebrate the holidays on the Eastern Shore. Enjoy!
Stuffed Mushrooms with Lump Crab Meat Ingredients 1 pound baby bella mushrooms 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided 4 ounces of cream cheese, room temperature ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese 1 (2-ounce) jar of pimentos, drained and finely chopped 2 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped 1 stem of green onion, (green part only), minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced 8 ounces lump crab meat, picked ¼ cup unseasoned panko breadcrumbs 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted Old Bay seasoning 1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Place a wire rack on a foil-lined baking sheet, set aside. 2. Remove the stems from the mushroom caps and rinse well. 3. In a medium bowl, toss the mushrooms in the olive oil and ½ teaspoon of the salt. Arrange mushrooms, cap side up, on the prepared
baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes. When done, using your tongs, turn slightly to drain any natural juices that have formed. 4. Meanwhile, in the same medium bowl, stir in the cream cheese, cheddar, parmesan, and remaining ½ teaspoon of salt, and using your hand-held mixer, blend until thoroughly incorporated. Add pimentos, parsley, green onions, and garlic, and mix with a fork. Gently fold in the crabmeat. 5. In a small bowl, stir together the panko and butter. Set aside. 6. Stuff each cap with a rounded teaspoon of the crab mixture, and a sprinkle of the panko. A light dusting of Old Bay can be applied if desired. 7. Bake for 22 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. Serve immediately. Secret Ingredient – Time “Time is a brisk wind, for each hour it brings something new.” Paracelsus
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Ocean City Today Dec. 1, 2023
Page 48
Time warp debate over library books The debate among Worcester County Board of Education members, parents and the public seems almost quaint, as adults use the experiences of their youth to argue points that come closer to being moot with every passing day. It’s almost like debating whether showing “adult entertainment” at a drive-in theater in this county should be prohibited. It is, even though the only drive-in movie in this area, the Shore Drive-in on Route 50, closed nearly 48 years ago. While parents naturally want their children to embrace their standards, the world around them is constantly changing and the kids know it. They always do. The grandparents of today’s youth, for instance, might recall their parents railing about the subversive influence of rock ‘n’ roll, which they managed to survive by using the principles their parents taught them to navigate their new world, rather than try, at their parents’ behest, to occupy a world that no longer exists. A shift in the habits of school children today that is pertinent to the current discussion is that in the day of their middle-aged parents, 60 percent of 12th graders participating in a research project at San Diego State University said they read a book or magazine every day. This same project — Monitoring the Future — found in 2018, however, that 12th graders who read a book or magazine daily had plunged to 16 percent. That is concerning. Parents are understandably worried that their children might read something inappropriate, but more worrisome is whether they’re reading anything at all. The world is always on fire over the possibility that kids will be seduced, subverted or corrupted by one emerging trend or another, and take the country down with it. Every generation has been subjected to that ... and has made up its own mind about the great questions that it had to confront. What kids don’t need is adults outside their familial orbit telling them how to grow up. Having said that, the school board’s opt-out rule is all that is needed to protect what parents believe is right or wrong for their kids. That’s their decision, while the kids will decide for themselves, as they always do. Beyond that, it’s nobody else’s business.
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
Life’s great mysteries
Over the course of a rare extra-long weekend, I had time to ponder many of life’s great mysteries, as well as some current situations that have been on my mind. For instance, we know that right whales travel from north to south and back, so my question is where do the far right whales go? Is anyone tracking them, or do they just swim in the same circle? Also, regarding whales, if Moby Dick by Herman Melville were to be carried in By a school library, shouldn’t we Stewart make sure that he’s identified Dobson as a “----- whale?” Or even a male reproductive cell whale? For that matter, should the book Madame Bovary be retitled “Madame B----?” Interestingly, that particular book, written in 1856, got author Gustave Flaubert hauled into court on obscenity charges. That’s because the title character, Ms. Bovary, or Ms. B----- if you prefer, was something of a wild-woman who did some sleeping around, as it were. The court did eventually rule in Flaubert’s favor and the book was later declared a doozy about a boozy floozy. Another thing I wasted some time thinking about this past weekend was how long milk can sit at room temperature before it goes bad? The obvious reason for that, of course, would be the millions of glasses of milk and plates of cookies left out for Santa Claus at Christmas.
I don’t know about anyone else, but I certainly wouldn’t want my presents to be delivered a day late because Santa had to pull over a couple of times after downing just a few hundred glasses of room temperature milk because milk-drinking at whatever temperature is part of his job decription. The U.S. dairy industry says that even pasteurized milk should not be left out of the refrigerator for more than two hours. So, if the tots put out the milk and cookies at 9 o’clock on Christmas Eve before heading off to bed, that means Santa has an 11 p.m. deadline to meet or pay the big price. I don’t know about anyone else, but I remember the one and only time I observed, “Saaaaay, this milk is a little tangy.” All I’m going to add is if Santa had the same experience as I did, flying up the chimney was more of an involuntary thing than a planned event. But enough of that. It’s been weeks now that I’ve been trying to figure out how to write about the 23-yearold woman who cried ... visibly cried ... on her social media page because she had to get a real job and therefore could not follow her daily routine of looking just so while doing absolutely nothing. Apparently, she did have hobbies, according to her tearful lament, although I suspect they revolved around her pursuit of looking just so and doing nothing. I can sympathize. I’ve been working for 53 years and have been crying about it this entire time. On the other hand, as bad as it might be to go to work every day, year in and year out, I’ll take that over a glass of tangy milk any day.
DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today
WORLD WAR II
‘Big Three’ go to Tehran Conference By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer Today, 80 years ago, “The Big Three” — U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, British Prime Minister Sir Winston S. Churchill and Soviet leader, Marshal Joseph Stalin — were concluding their first conference. The prime minister had arrived in Tehran, Iran, at about 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 27, 1943, while the president and his party arrived at about 3 p.m., from Cairo. The prime ministerwas taken to the British Embassy, not far from the Soviet Embassy, in the city. The president was driven to the American Embassy, on the outskirts of the city, where he was ensconced in a second floor suite. Stalin had traveled by train from Moscow to Baku, in Azerbaijan, and then flown in an American Douglas Dakota Lend-Lease transport to Tehran. It was his only airplane flight. Shortly after the president had been settled into his suite, Soviet NKVD Gen. Dmitry Arkadiev arrived at the embassy, with news of a possible German assassination plot. At 9 a.m., on Sunday, Nov. 28, W. Averell Harriman, U.S. Ambassador to the USSR, knocked on the president’s door and told him that it was not safe at the embassy and that they had to relocate to the Soviet compound. After a night of staff meetings between the British, Soviet and Americans, it was decided to move the president to the Soviet Embassy. The president accepted Stalin’s offer to stay in the main building of the Soviet Embassy Compound, which was across the street from the British Embassy. Stalin stayed in a smaller building. That way, no one would have to go onto the streets, since the Soviets were going to construct a secure pathway between their embassy and that of the British. At 3 p.m., the president’s cavalcade left the embassy and began navigating Tehran’s crowded streets. Two jeeps filled with heavily armed American soldiers led the president’s limousine through the city as he waved to the cheering crowd. The limousine was followed by two more jeeps filled with more American soldiers. Shortly after the cavalcade’s departure, a dusty old army sedan left the embassy with the same destination. Its passenger was the real FDR, who kept his head down and did no waving! The Soviets blockaded the street between the two missions, built walls connecting the two compounds and constructed a temporary passage between the two. Both compounds were protected by four rings of security with anti-aircraft and machine gun emplacements manned by 3000 NKVD troops. Of course, the Soviets bugged the president’s quarters and
Seated - Joseph Stalin, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Winston Churchill
any rooms the Allies used in the Soviet Embassy! Shortly after FDR’s arrival at the Soviet Embassy, Marshal Stalin visited. He was followed by Foreign Minister Vyacheslav Molotov. The first meeting of “The Big Three” occurred at 4 p.m. in the conference room of the Soviet Embassy. The prime minister was accompanied by Foreign Secretary Anthony Eden, Field Marshal Sir John Dill, Lord Gen. Sir Hastings (“Pug”) Ismay and the three chiefs of staff. The president was accompanied by his special advisor and confidant, Harry Hopkins, and Adms. William D. Leahy and Ernest King. Gens. George C. Marshall and Henry Arnold were supposed to be present but were confused as to the time of the meeting and were out sightseeing. Marshal Stalin was accompanied by old comrades Foreign Minister Molotov and Marshal Kliment I. Voroshilov. The Soviets had made a round oak table for the occasion, so there would be no arguments about seating. That evening, FDR hosted a dinner for the other two. In attendance were British Foreign Secretary Eden, Ambassadors Harriman and Sir Archibald Clark-Kerr, and Commissar Molotov. The next morning, the military chiefs of the three countries met, while “The Big Three” met again at 4 p.m. At that meeting, the prime minister presented the Sword of Honor from King George VI, commemorating the Red Army’s victory at Stalingrad, to Stalin. When Stalin accepted it, he kissed the scabbard. Then he, unexpectedly, handed it to Marshal Voroshilov, who dropped it! It was then carried from
the room by a Soviet Guard of Honor. On Nov.30, before lunch, the new Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, together with Iran’s prime and foreign ministers made the rounds, visiting each of “The Big Continued on Page 50
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WORLD WAR II Continued from Page 49 Three” separately. Then the three leaders had lunch in the president’s quarters of the Soviet Embassy, where the president and the prime minister informed Stalin that the cross-channel invasion — “Operation Overlord” — would be launched in May of the following year. After that, the work session was begun again at 4 p.m. Following the finish of business, everyone proceeded to the British Embassy to celebrate the prime minister’s 69th birthday. After many toasts, Stalin acknowledged that without the material help of the U.S., “...we would lose this war.” The president gave the prime minister a beautiful porcelain vase. On the return to London, it was broken into several pieces, but was reconstructed. The party finally ended at 2 a.m. The three agreed that following the defeat of the Axis powers, the eastern border of Poland would be moved
DECEMBER 1, 2023
Ocean City Today
OBITUARIES west so that the Soviet Union would retain, more or less, the borders developed in its agreement with the German Reich in August 1939. As compensation, Poland’s western border would also be moved west, thereby occupying a portion of Germany. The three leaders also decided that Finland would remain as an independent country and would not return as part of the Soviet Union, even though it had been a part of the Russian Empire, for more than a century prior to Word War I. Finally, Stalin promised that the U.S.S.R. would enter the war against Japan. After the Tehran Conference, the prime minister and the president returned to Cairo and met with the Milli ef (National Chief) of Turkey, Gen. Mustafa smet nönü, at the Second Cairo Conference, where Churchill tried, unsuccessfully, to convince him to bring Turkey into the war against
Gen. Mustafa smet nönü
the Axis. The president, on Dec. 6, 1943, met with the exiled King of Greece, George II. The “Big Three” would meet once more in Yalta, in February 1945. The Russian movie “Tehran 43,” starring Alain Delon, tells the story of the German assassination plot. Next week: Manhattan Project Mr. Wimbrow writes from Ocean City, Maryland, where he practices law representing those persons accused of criminal and traffic offenses, and those persons who have suffered a personal injury through no fault of their own. He can be contacted at wimbrowlaw@gmail.com
RALPH SIMONS CUMBERLAND SR. Berlin Ralph Simons Cumberland Sr., 89, of Berlin, died Nov. 20, 2023, surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife, Vicki Cumberland; his children, Ralph S. Cumberland Jr (Jennifer), Thomas W. Cumberland (Cindy), Kelly L. Clark (Thomas), R. Cumberland Charlene A. Shaw and Danielle L. Long (Austin); his grandchildren, Christi, Matthew, Rusty and Nick; and greatgrandchildren, Sadie, Waylon and Gage; his sister, Letha Fadely (Jay); and his dog, Maggie Mae. He was preceded in death by his parents, John “Riley” Cumberland and Anna Marie Crickenberger; his siblings, John “Riley” Cumberland, Nancy Cumberland and Pete Cumberland; and his first wife, Brenda Sue Cumberland. Ralph was truly loved by everyone he met. He was a devoted father, a loving husband, and a caring friend. He loved his animals and always had dogs, cats, horses and even various farm animals by his side. He served as president of the Western Horse Show Association and would travel every weekend for horse shows. Continued on Page 51
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OBITUARIES Continued from Page 52 He was a member of the International Union of Elevator Constructors Local #10 after a lengthy career as an elevator mechanic. He loved to drive, you name it and he drove it — concrete trucks, city buses, boardwalk trams, and even race cars. His love for the Baltimore Ravens and New York Yankees was only outnumbered by his love for going on cruises, with over 35 cruises under his belt. Ralph had a generous heart and supported multiple organizations such as St. Jude and the Humane Society. He will be laid to rest at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery. Services will be held at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service, 504 Franklin Ave., in Berlin. To send condolences to the family, visit easternshorecremation.com. RUTH FISHER HALL Bishopville Ruth Fisher Hall, 96, of Bishopville, died on Nov. 25, 2023. Born in 1927, Mrs. Hall was the daughter of Robert Jennings Fisher and Nannie Gibbs Fisher. She was the youngest of eight children raised on Holly Grove Farm a few miles west of Ocean City. Ruth was married to her late husband, Darrell H. Hall, for 50 years, until his death in 1995. Together they farmed Hall Farms on Campbelltown Road in Bishopville. In their retirement, they enjoyed traveling and camping as far away as Alaska. In 1986, they became charter members of Avion Palms Resort in Bowling Green, Florida, where they and a group of camping friends bought property and created a resort that Ruth enjoyed for 30 years. Ruth retired from the U.S. Postal Service, where she worked from 1964 to 1987. She began her career with the Post Office in the Bishopville location and retired from the Berlin post office. After her retirement, she also worked as the innkeeper at Merry Sherwood in Berlin. She was a
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member of the Holly Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star. Ruth was the mother of four children: Suzanne Timmons (Dale), of Berlin, Ellen H. Lang, Berlin; Raymond H. Hall, Bishopville, and the late David H. Hall, of Whaleyville. There are four grandchildren: Denise Venable, Jennifer McCabe, Raymond Hall, Jr. Ruth Hall and Emily Hall. Great-grandchildren include Maddie Farlow, Savannah McCabe, Clayton McCabe, Odelia Elliott and Coralee Hall. She is also survived by daughter-in-law Diane Hall and numerous nieces and nephews. Ruth was predeceased by brothers Everett Fisher, Harold Fisher, Joe Fisher and Jack Fisher, as well as sisters Helen Innocenti, Mary (Pat) Sipple and Nellie Whithoff. Graveside services were held at Dale Cemetery in Whaleyville on Nov. 28. Rev. Terry Fort officiated. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Showell Volunteer Fire Co. (11620 Worcester Hwy, Bishopville, MD 21813) or Whaleyville United Methodist Church (P.O. Box 6, Whaleyville, MD 21872). PATRICK MICHAEL MCKENNA Ocean City Patrick Michael McKenna, 71, of Ocean City, went to his heavenly home on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, in Berlin. Patrick was born, on March 12, 1952, in Washington, D.C., to William Daniel McKenna and Margaret Julia (Price) McKenna. Patrick worked in the food service industry while enjoying one of his favorite hobbies, photography. After retiring, Patrick had the opportunity to travel to our country’s most beautiful western states. While there, he pho-
tographed the stunning landscapes he had only seen in pictures and film. Patrick was faithful to his lord and savior and enjoyed church fellowship and community service. Patrick is the eldest of the 11 McKenna children. Patrick is preceded in death by his parents, William (1979) and Margaret (2016); and his two sisters Veronica L. McKenna (2007) and Cecilia R. Humphries (2012). He is preceded in death by his nephew Matthew Cooper (2009); his Aunt Marie (Davis 2007, maternal); cousin Tom Davis (2015); and numerous aunts and uncles (paternal) from upstate New York. Eight siblings survive Patrick: Joan M. Hahn, Daniel F. McKenna, Timothy D. McKenna, Colleen A. Trott, Shawn W. McKenna, Annalice Wood, Maureen M. McKenna and Terrence A. McKenna. The Davis cousins also survive him: Patty, Cathy, John and Suzanne. A memorial service for Patrick will be held at 3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2, at Ocean City Baptist Church, 102 North Division St., in Ocean City, by Pastor Sean Patrick Davis. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the American Heart Association; Peripheral Artery Disease (AHA/PAD). JOE WILFORD Long Neck Mr. Joe Wilford, of Long Neck, passed away peacefully at home on Thanksgiving Day with the love of his life, Liz Lindsey, present. Joe was born to Roger Ferdinand Berte Leon Dequick in Brussels, Belgium, on June 3, 1935. After serving one year in the Belgian Air Force as a driver, Joe studied music at the Royal Academy of Music in Brussels and took private guitar lessons from his mentor, Jo VanWetter. Upon graduation in 1955, he
signed onto a radio station and did recordings and live performances, including live shows with Marlene Dietrich and Edith Piaf. Joe played lead jazz guitar in Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Luxembourg and a year in Jordan from 1965 until 1966, where he played in various venues including King Hussein’s Palace with a band from Spain. Joe Wilford After Joe left the Middle East, he lived in England for a few months, then moved to Washington D.C., at which time he married and had one child, Nancy Wilford-Abramson. While Joe was in Washington, he opened his own restaurant and lounge called the BOCA JO and entertained audiences from all over the world. He also played at the Shoreham Hotel for dozens of well-known artists, including Tony Bennett, Peggy Lee, Toots Thielmans, Gladys Knight, Petula Clark, Johnny Mathis, George Benson, Dionne Warwick and many others. Joe also had the occasion to play for Billy Eckstine at the Playboy Cub in Baltimore, and claimed Billy had the best singing voice in the business. Music was Joe’s whole life and he played with many local jazz combos, big bands, orchestras, live TV, country, and rock and roll: but jazz was king in Joe’s musical world. He deeply admired guitarist Jim Hall from New York and had occasion to meet with Jim at his home. Joe was beloved by many people because he was the epitome of class and European style, generosity and genuine friendship. He also had a great sense of humor and enjoyed many happy times with people from everywhere. Most of all, he loved his partner of over 30 years, Liz Lindsey, Continued on Page 52
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DECEMBER 1, 2023
OBITUARIES Continued from Page 51 his beloved home in Long Neck and his kitty cats. He leaves behind a sister-in-law Maureen Cloutier; stepdaughter Frances Cordell, her husband Gregg and their daughter Mary Cordell and Joe’s son-in-law, John Abramson. Joe was predeceased by his mother and father Germaine and Omer Dequick of Brussels, Belgium. Any donations should be directed toward your favorite animal rescue. A celebration will be announced at a future date. Arrangements are in the care of Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service, 504 Franklin Ave., in Berlin. To send condolences to the family, visit easternshorecremation.com. JOSEPH A. WOJCIECHOWSKI Ocean City Joseph A. Wojciechowski, 86, of Ocean City, died Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at home. He was born in Baltimore and was the son of the late Joseph Wojciechowski and Sophia (Keifer) Wojciechowski. He was a retired realtor for Moore Warfield and Glick, a past Exalted Ruler of Ocean City Elk’s Lodge, and life member of Ocean City Pleasure Club. He is survived by his wife, Marlene P. Wojciechowski; three children,
Joseph Wojciechowski and Michele Brown of Abington, Maryland, Deborah Cobern and husband Alex of Millersville, Maryland, and Michael Wojciechowski and wife Lori of Parkville, Maryland; two brothers Robert Wojciechowski (Lillian) of Crossville, Tennessee, and Patrick Wojciechowski of White Joseph Hall, Maryland; four Wojciechowski grandchildren, Mike Wojciechowski (Molly), Ronald Goetzke (Rebecca), Sarah Cobern and Meghan Kane; and three great-grandchildren, Joseph Geotzke, Sophia Wojceichowski, and Rhylie Kane. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Dec. 2 at Bishop Hastings Funeral Home, 19 S. Main Street, in Selbyville. Friends may call one hour before the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Elk’s National Foundation at secure.elks.org/site/Donation. Condolences may be sent by visiting bishophastingsfh.com. MELODY ANN JOHNSON Berlin Melody Ann Johnson, 70, passed peacefully into the hands of God on Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023, at Tidal Health in Salisbury.
Melody was predeceased by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Johnson Sr.; and her brother, Edward Johnson Jr. She is survived by her brother, Patrick L. Johnson and his wife Carolyn T. Johnson; a niece, Genevieve Lee Johnson; sister-in-law Teresa Quillen Johnson; a niece, Amy J. Holloway; and her step-granddaughter Brittany L. Carey; along with her stepson and wife, Stacey and Karen Carey. Melody was a graduate of Stephen Decatur High School, class of 1971, and Frostburg State College class of 1975. Her great loves in life were her family, the Stevenson United Methodist Church, hunting and fishing, serving the Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay, serving as a member of the Boggs Disharoon American Legion Ladies Auxiliary Post 123 in Berlin, along with numerous community activities involving veterans and assisting the elderly. Arrangements are in the care of Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service. Memorial donations can be made to the Boggs Disharoon American Legion Ladies Auxiliary, Boggs Disharoon Unit #123, P.O. Box 412, Berlin, Maryland 21811 or to the Stevenson United Methodist Church Spirit Kitchen, 123 North Main Street, Berlin, Md 21811. A celebration of her life will be
$1,595.
held at a later time. JOAN MARIE MILLER Berlin Joan Marie Miller, 82, passed away on Monday, Nov. 28, 2023, in Berlin. Mrs. Miller retired from the Ocean City Police Department in 2003, after 28 years of service. She began her career as an office clerk, working her way up, holding several supervisory positions, and served her last 14 years as executive secJoan M. Miller retary/assistant to the chief of police. Joan always thanked June and Jack Fisher for convincing her to move to Ocean City from Baltimore. She worked as the Fisher’s barmaid at the Jackspot Lounge for five years before going to the OCPD in 1975. Joan was a member of the Berlin American Legion Auxiliary Post #123 Boggs Disharoon. She enjoyed reading, gardening, playing the slots, and her faithful cat, Sophie. She leaves behind her special friends and caregivers for the last 20 years, Rich and Patty Currence. Joan was predeceased by her mother, Florence Ebbert; her father George Ebbert Jr.; and her husband, Alfred Miller. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Dec. 1, at Sunset Memorial Park on Route 50 Berlin. Letters of condolence can be sent to the family via burbagefuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of The Burbage Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Legion Ladies’ Auxiliary Boggs Disharoon Post 123.
OBITUARY NOTICES Obituary Notices cost $50 per week for Print and Online Publications. E-mail: editor@oceancitytoday.net Mail: 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Fax: 410-723-6511
Sports & Recreation
Ocean City Today Dec. 1, 2023
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www.oceancitytoday.com
Seahawks defeat Millers 35-34 to move to 2A game By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer (Dec. 1, 2023) Stephen Decatur High School Seahawks fans packed Louis H. Taylor Stadium in Berlin last Friday eager to witness the restoration of a little pride and the visitation of some revenge on Milford Mill Academy. Last year, Milford Mill hosted the game and stomped the stuffing out of the Seahawks. Not this year. This year, the Seahawks worked a little harder in the weight room, watched what they put in their bodies, watched films and prepared for a contest that would decide who would move on to the state’s 2A football championship round in Annapolis this Thursday. This year they were ready and determined to win. And win they did, 35-34. The people who came to see a great game of football got their money’s worth and more. From the Seahawks’ opening touchdown by junior wide receiver Davin Chandler with 8:35 minutes to play in the first quarter to Seahawk senior quarterback Brycen Coleman taking a knee as the game’s final seconds ticked off the clock and everything in-between was pure excitement. Each team earned a single touchdown in the first quarter followed by successful point after attempts.They entered the second period tied 7-7. Stephen Decatur scored 3 touchdowns and point after kicks in the second quarter for a little bit of a cushion they would need later. Coleman scored the second and Careen Bolden the next two touchdowns to end the second quarter with 28-13 lead. Stephen Decatur failed to score in the third quarter while the Millers put up 12 points. Each team scored again in the final quarter. With 7:47 left Bolden ran another ball across the end zone and Brogen Eastlack made the kick. The Millers did all they could with a conversion while Stephen Decatur took to the conservative path and got the extra point. It would be all they needed. Bolden was voted “Player of the Game” based on his 28-yards passing, 14 receiving, rushing for 89yards and making three touchdowns. See WIN Page 54
PHOTO BY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Wide receiver Davin Chandler reaches out to catch a low pass before falling into the end zone for a touchdown.
PHOTO BY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
Quarterback Brycen Coleman carries the ball past a defender.
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Win took team to next game Thurs. Continued from Page 53 “I don’t have time for interviews. I just want to go over there, kiss my beautiful wife and then go celebrate,” beamed Seahawks Head Coach Jake Coleman. “I’m very proud of our kids. They worked very hard for this. “ This game was part of the 2023 Maryland High School Football Playoff Brackets – MPSSAA-2A tournament. On Thursday, the 13-0 Seahawks were set to travel to the Naval Academy field to take on the 10-2 Huntingtown Hurricanes of Calvert County.
PHOTO BY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS
A celebration surrounds quarterback Brycen Coleman as he jumps up after taking a knee at the end of the game.
SDHS alum recruiting local athletes for Westcliff Univ. California school making noteworthy contributions to national athletic scene
SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Members of the Tokio Marine disc golf team pose with their first place award at the United Way of the Eastern Shore’s recent disc golf tournament.
United Way disc golf tourney raises $26K for free books (Dec. 1, 2023) Risk Placement Services and Gallagher recently hosted the 10th Annual Disc Golf Tournament for United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program at Schumaker Pond Park. According to a news release, 30 teams participated in the event, and more than $26,000 was raised to help the United Way provide free, home delivered books to children ages birth to five across the lower shore. “This year’s event helps us provide a full year of free books to over 1,000 children in Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester counties,” Pam Gregory, the president and CEO for the United Way, said in the release. “Increasing access to books through home delivery not only instills an early love for books but also helps build essential developmental and early learning skills children need to be successful when they start school. We are so thankful for the partnership with RPS and Gallagher to help make this significant impact each year.” The fundraiser was made possible thanks to many sponsors: Literacy Sponsors – At-Bay, Avery Hall Insur-
ance Group, CFC, The Hanover Insurance Group, Hottle and Associates, Tokio Marine HCC, and Travelers Insurance. Reading Corner Sponsors – Beazley, Cowbell Cyber and Pen Underwriting. Bookshelf SponsorsCharles Brown Glass Company, Delco Packaging, Draper Media, First Shore Federal, GKD, Shore United and USLI. Tee Sponsors- Integra Administrative Group, The Hartford, and The Salisbury School. Golf Cart Sponsors – Bestemps and Selective. Beverage Sponsor – Corvus. Lunch Sponsor – Risk Placement Services and AXA XL. Tokio Marine and Dicarlo were the top teams with the first and second place awards. Jack Shelton of DiCarlo won the men’s closest to the pin and Catie Windsor with SVN won ladies’ closest to the pin. Ambridge’s Amy Landefeld won the ladies’ longest drive, and the men’s longest drive went to First Shore Federal’s Rich Ashley. Awards such as Best Team Costumes for Avery Hall, Lumberjack Award to Tokio Marine, Jacques Cousteau award to Jim Miller from The Beazley Group and several others were also presented.
(Dec. 1, 2023) Shawn Harris, an alumnus of Stephen Decatur high school and current dean of athletics of Westcliff University in Irvine, California, returned to Maryland this week to spread the word about the school’s contribution to the national athletic scene. According to a news release, Harris, alongside Westcliff athletic department administrators David Shermet, Ryan Schrader and Michael Hardaway, are touring the state this week to spread the word about the university, an NAIA level school that has exploded on to the college athletics scene on the West Coast since starting its program from scratch five years ago. Born in Salisbury and raised in Berlin, Harris is a former Marine who worked his way through coaching channels and experience in corporate leadership to reach his current position. The release said his mindset is “driven over given,” and humble, self-motivated students, studentathletes, and coaches are who Westcliff recruiters want for the program. In two-and-a-half seasons of affiliated NAIA play, Westcliff has won 15 conference championships and four national championships, two in men’s beach volleyball and one each in men’s water polo and cheer. Westcliff is minutes from some of Southern California’s most famous beaches, and was the first college
program in the world to offer athletic scholarships for competitive surfing. The program won the California state championship in its second year of competition. The Warriors have won conference titles in both men’s and women’s soccer, men’s basketball, men’s and women’s tennis, men’s and women’s beach volleyball, surf, and men’s water polo. This week in Wichita, Kansas, the Westcliff men’s soccer team is competing in the NAIA national championship round of 16. The team is one of three to enter the round with one loss on the 2023 season. Continuing their mission to find hidden gems in the high school and junior college athletics landscapes, Harris and the Warriors are in Maryland this week seeking overlooked and underserved athletes who want an opportunity to shine at the next level. On Tuesday, Westcliff’s recruiting tour began with an athletics information day in Anne Arundel County, and will continue through Dec. 4 as the recruiters travel down the lower Eastern Shore. Harris and the Warriors will finish the tour in Wicomico and Worcester counties, visiting Ocean City, Pocomoke and Snow Hill, and finishing up at Harris’ alma mater, Stephen Decatur. High school students, studentathletes, athletic directors, coaches and administrators are invited to contact Westcliff’s recruiting team by e-mailing Berecruited@westcliff.edu and setting up a time to meet.
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Drink Specials $12 Select Apps & Entrees Bangin’ Shrimp Fish & Frites Chicken Wings Mom’s Shrimp Chicken Tenders
M A R L I N M O O N O C M D.CO M
Natural Light Cans 2.50 Local IPA Drafts 6.50 Domestic Bottles 5 Imported Bottles 6.50 Crushes 8 Martinis 10 Rail Drinks 6 House Wines 6