1/26/2024 Ocean City Today

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Ocean City Today

OC Today, Dispatch looking ahead Coastal newspapers set to build on combined strengths (Jan. 26, 2024) After more than 30 years of head-to-head competition that never produced a clear winner, Ocean City Today and The Dispatch are merging next week to create what their principals believe is the kind of news provider the coastal area needs now and well into the future.

As of Feb. 2, readers of both weekly newspapers will see the new OC Today/Dispatch on the newsstands, as the top personnel from both offices combine the best elements of the two publications into one.

“This is a move that will greatly benefit the community,” The Dispatch Editor Steve Green said. “We truly will be stronger as one rather than continuing to compete against each other for the same news and sales every week. This is a big deal for us, and we think the real winner will be our readers and our clients. We are excited to bring the most popular aspects of both papers into one larger newspaper that will truly serve as the newspaper of record for Worcester County.”

For the many people caught off guard by what would appear to be a sudden change of heart by the leadership at two highly competitive operations, this consolidation is anything but abrupt.

“The idea of getting together instead of beating each other up week after week came up more than a decade ago,” OC Today Editor Stewart Dobson said. “Steve and I have had conversations about it off and on for years, and nearly pulled it off last year. But we’re both very competitive people, and it took a little longer for us to realize that the easiest way to win the campaign for readers and advertisers — and to do a better job of serving the community — is to do it together.”

In a joint statement, Green and Dobson said capitalizing on the experience of the merged staff will also allow OC Today/Dispatch to become more than a newspaper but also the coastal area’s primary web-based and digital provider of information.

“We have many sources of local information on the web these days,” Green said, “but none of them are backed up by on-the-ground reporting like we provide.”

Green also noted that the two papers combined have more than 200,000 Facebook followers to call on as OC Today/Dispatch launches new subscription digital products over the course of the year.

“We know the market, and we know it’s changing,” Dobson said.

“We also know just by looking at our Facebook numbers how big that underserved market is. We were so busy worrying about each other that we failed to see how big this opportunity really is. Now, we intend to go after it.”

Unlike most community newspapers, which depend solely on their residential readership and advertising bases, The Dispatch and OC Today have benefitted from having three bases: residential, nonresident property owners and visitors.

“This is what kept our two independent newspapers going for so long, when so many others across the country have gone under,” Dobson said.

The Dispatch was founded in 1984

by Dick Lohmeyer under the Maryland Coast Dispatch Inc. banner.

Lohmeyer operated numerous resort area newspapers over the course of his 60 years in the industry. Upon his passing in 2005, Green assumed the role of publisher.

Ocean City Today was launched in 1993 by Flag Publications Inc., a company created by a handful of local investors, none of whom had a controlling interest. Dobson joined as editor and company president in 1994.

Flag Publications also owns the Bayside Gazette, a free weekly deliv-

Ocean City Today Calendar ..........................30 Classifieds ........................32 Commentary ....................40 Crossword Puzzle ..............26 Entertainment ..................27 Obituaries ........................43 Public Notices ..................34 Service Directory ..............33 Sports ..............................44 Editor: sdobson@oceancitytoday.net News: editor@oceancitytoday.net Sales: sales@oceancitytoday.net Classifieds: classifieds@oceancitytoday.net Phone: 410-723-6397 www.oceancitytoday.com and at Facebook/Ocean City Today Published Fridays by FLAG Publications, Inc. 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, Ocean City, Md. 21842 Available by subscription at $150 a year.

ered to Ocean Pines and Berlin, and the Ocean City Digest, a paid legal newspaper. It also helped found and is a partner in the Coastal Point newspaper, which serves the Bethany Beach/Ocean View/Fenwick area and is celebrating its 20th anniversary on Feb. 5.

Leading the new operation will be Dobson, who will mark 30 years with OC Today in March. In addition to his 54 years working in the industry, he grew up in the business. His father, Emory Dobson, was a lifelong newspaper editor and publisher, primarily in Caroline County.

Serving as executive editor will be Green, who has been at the helm of The Dispatch since 1997, has worked in all aspects of the newspaper’s functions, from reporting and photography to delivering papers and maintaining sales accounts. He also grew up in the business as Lohmeyer’s stepson.

With Dobson as editor and Green as executive editor, the leadership team will be rounded out by Christine Brown, who will continue to serve as publisher and controller. She will be aided by administrative assistant Gini Tufts.

The staff overall will consist of veterans drawn from both papers, many

of whom have deep roots to the area.

On the news side will be associate editors Charlene Sharpe, Bethany Hooper and Mallory Panuska Ames and Staff Writer Tara Fischer.

Sharpe, Hooper and Fischer are products of Stephen Decatur High School.

The sales department will consist of long-time ad sales associates Mary Cooper, Terri French and Renee Kelly, while Taylor Sloan handles classifieds and legal notices.

The art department will also have a veteran staff, with Art Director Cole Gibson, Senior Page Designer Susan Parks and Graphic Artist Kelly Brown.

“This is going to be a work in progress,” Green and Dobson said in their joint statement. “A redesign and reworking of the print publication from top to bottom is in the works and will unfold over time.

“The same approach will be taken with the two papers’ websites and social media pages. They will be joined under the OC Today/Dispatch name.”

The new paper will operate out of the offices of the former OC Today at 11934 Ocean Gateway, Suite 6, in Ocean City, and will retain the 410723-6397 phone number. All email addresses for the staff will remain as they are for now.

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 26, 2024

Opposition to offshore wind runs rampant at OC hearing U.S. Rep. Andy Harris hosts forum with NJ congressmen and others against project

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

U.S. Rep. Andy Harris (R-01), left, converses with U.S. Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04), during a hearing on offshore wind last Saturday at the Ocean City convention center.

By Hunter Hine Staff Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan has issued a strict warning that city government officials are prepared to go to court to challenge federal approval of wind development off the coast.

Speaking at a hearing organized by U.S. Rep. Andy Harris (R-01) on Saturday, Meehan joined several local, state and federal representatives who spoke at the Ocean City convention center to voice concerns about — and argue against — US Wind’s proposed

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wind energy project.

Meehan said that if the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, or BOEM, gives approval for the construction of wind turbines off the Ocean City coast, the city would challenge the decision with a lawsuit. The bureau’s decision will follow review of the environmental assessment of the project “The Town of Ocean City will not back down for our opposition to these projects and to our future here in Ocean City. We will not back down,” Meehan said.

An audience of about 500 people gathered in the auditorium of the Ocean City Performing Arts Center to hear the testimony, Anna Adamian, Harris’s communications director, said after the meeting. The meeting also featured a panel whose members testified on behalf of industries and citizens that could see adverse effects from offshore wind development.

Speakers concentrated on issues at the core of the offshore wind debate, including its possible effects on tourism, tax and utilities prices, fishing, marine life and national security.

“We oughta think long and hard as a nation as we begin the industrialization of our ocean off the mid-Atlantic coast. We heard about a lot of the problems today… The list goes on and on. The bottom line, this is not ready for prime time,” Harris said.

Harris said although he invited representatives from BOEM and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, or NOAA, both federal agencies declined, and US Wind — the company proposing to build the wind farm off of Maryland and Delaware — did not respond.

“Marylanders want offshore wind.

In the many conversations we’ve had across the state, the support for offshore wind comes through loud and clear. And in a recent poll, 72 percent of Marylanders say they support expanding offshore wind energy,” Nancy Sopko, senior director of external affairs at US Wind, said in an email after the meeting. “Offshore wind is a win for the environment, a win for the economy, and a win for the future.”

The referenced poll was done by Victoria Research, a polling firm from Takoma Park, in November.

Pat Schrawder, a district representative for Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R38), and who Harris introduced as a “community advocate,” said many local organizations have voiced disapproval for offshore wind, including the Ocean City Marlin Club, the Atlantic Coast Sportfishing Association and the Ocean City Hotel-MotelRestaurant Association.

But residents in support of wind also made a showing.

See PROJECT Page 6

JANUARY 26, 2024

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Ocean City Today

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Off the kitchen is a beautiful dining area where you will enjoy meals with family and friends. The dining room flows nicely into the large family area for relaxing and entertaining, and there is a gas fireplace for winter nights. The family room has a glass slider to a covered deck with southern exposure. The famous White Marlin tournament is right next-door, and you have a great view from your balcony. The primary bedroom ensuite is spacious and faces the water as well. There's also a slider off the primary bedroom to the balcony. The other two bedrooms are private as well. There's also a separate entrance to those two bedrooms off the foyer so one of them could serve as a second primary bedroom. The HVAC was just replaced. This condo is well taken care of, and the amenities in the condo building include an indoor heated pool and an open year-round exercise room. The condo is just three blocks to the beach and boardwalk.

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733 BRADLEY ROAD • OCEAN CITY • $3,200,000 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 enter with your eyes drawn to the beautiful Bayfront views and the swimming pool in the courtyard. On the first level you will find a kitchen designed for access in and out to the pool area with plenty of seating and room for entertaining family and friends. Also on the first floor, you will find a Bay front office or playroom for the kids. This home is complete with a home elevator so either take the spiraling stairs to the second level or take the elevator up to the second level.You will be mesmerized by the amazing Bayfront views and endless sunsets this home offers. There are 6 decks off the home for privacy. On the second level you will find a professional chef’s kitchen complete with large center island, high end appliances and plenty of cabinet space adjoining a beautiful, spacious dining room overlooking the bay. The family room is also complete with a gas fireplace for chilly winter nights, making this the perfect home for year-round living or a vacation home. Also, on this floor, you will find a second office, home theater room, or game room. On the third level you will enjoy waking up to the endless water views from your primary bedroom. The primary bath has custom finishes throughout with extensive tile work. The primary bedroom also has a fireplace for romantic evenings and relaxing. Also on this floor are three additional bedrooms, which are spacious and separated nicely from the primary bedroom. This home is over 6000 ft.² and is one of the few Bayfront homes available on the market. So, if you’re looking for a home at the beach, also offering all the thrill of the day with attention to detail look no further. Come take a look at 733 Bradley Rd. today before it’s sold!

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204 N HERON DR #2048C OCEAN CITY • $425,000 This beautiful 2BR/2BA condo with deeded boat slip #23 is in Seascape in the fabulous community of Heron Harbour.

This larger corner model is rarely available for sale. It has two primary bedrooms each with its own full bath. This condo comes furnished ready for your immediate enjoyment. When you walk in you will fall in love with the floor plan with a townhouse feel. There is an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, subway tile backsplash, and white kitchen cabinets. The dining room is directly off the kitchen that flows into a spacious living area. The family room has vaulted ceilings and is a great place for family time and entertaining with friends. This condo has an oversized primary bedroom. The second bedroom is on the next level and has a full bath and oversized closet. There is a full deck off the family room, perfect to enjoy an outdoor meal. There is also an outdoor storage closet off the deck. You will love the deeded boat slip that conveys with the property. Offered with a one-year AHS warranty. Heron Harbour is amenity rich with two outdoor pools, an indoor pool, a kiddie pool, fitness center, social room, sauna, locker room, two Har-Tru tennis courts, sidewalks, and piers. Enjoy your boat, fishing, crabbing, kayaking, and paddle boarding all directly out your back door. You are very close to shopping, restaurants, and the beach. Come take a look before it's SOLD! MDWO2018196

36939 CREEKHAVEN DRIVE SELBYVILLE, DE 19975 • $835,000 Stunning 4BR/4.5 bath home in the Refuge at Derickson Creek hits the market! This meticulously maintained home backs up to the pond, has peek of the Bay and is located approximately three miles from Fenwick Island beach. As you walk through the front door you will immediately see the attention to detail. There is an upgraded kitchen with breakfast bar, Quartz countertops, beautiful tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and plenty of cabinet space. The kitchen opens into the dining area. Friends and family will enjoy meals there together and will make memories that last a lifetime. The spacious family room, with a beautiful gas fireplace, is off the dining area and is a perfect gathering place for entertaining family and friends. There’s a wonderful, enclosed sunroom with a glass slider to the paver patio deck and beautiful back yard. There’s also a flex room on the first floor that could be used as an office. The primary bedroom suite is located on the first floor and is oversized and has a beautiful full en suite bath. You will enjoy the water views from your primary bedroom. The laundry room is also on the first floor. You will love the first-floor hardwood floors, tile, woodworking, upgraded lighting and upgraded carpet throughout. The hardwood floors continue to the second level. There is a spacious second family room on this level and there are three additional bedrooms all with en suite baths. This is the perfect home for everyone to enjoy. There is a two-car garage, covered front porch, and outside shower. Every room in this house has a view of the pond and a peek of the Bay. The Refuge is an amenity rich community with a large inviting outdoor pool w/separate wading pool for kids, a clubhouse with an exercise/workout room, tennis courts, basketball court, volleyball court and playground. In the Refuge you get to enjoy the scenic views and native wildfowl of Derickson Creek and the Delaware Inland bays. Come take a look today before it's SOLD! DESU2052970 MID-TOWN 3BR/3.5 BA RIVENDELL CONDOMINIUM with WATER VIEWS!

OCEAN 2 BR/2BA CONDO

1 66TH ST UNIT 101 • OCEAN CITY • $499,900

121 81ST ST UNIT 706 • OCEAN CITY • $815,000

Stunning 2BR/2BA condo one back from the beach hits the market! This condo is located on 66th street in an ocean block building. The sellers have made many recent upgrades, installing luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, new microwave, new refrigerator, new stove, new dishwasher, new exterior HVAC unit, toilets and kitchen faucet within the last three years. The decks also were tiled in 2019 and the glass sliders leading to the deck were also replaced within the last five years. This would make a great second home or investment property and is being sold fully furnished and ready for your immediate enjoyment. This is one of the best values at the beach - fully furnished and only one back from the ocean. As you walk through the front door, you will see an inviting living room for entertaining family and friends. There is a dining area off the kitchen with glass sliders leading to a huge covered deck with recently tiled floor. You can hear the waves break from the deck. This is a first floor unit but it's an elevated building so the height off the street is equivalent to a second floor unit. This condo has two large bedrooms and two full baths so there's plenty of room for family and friends. The condo is in walking distance to many restaurants, stores, shops and a supermarket, so once you're here you don’t have to move your car, but the condo is conveniently located to the route 90 bridge, making coming and going a joy. Come take a look today before this amazing property is sold.

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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

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 the chef in your family with its 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

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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 2024 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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Ocean City Today

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Project advocates protest hearing Continued from Page 4 As people filed into the convention center before the meeting began, a few people stood by the entrance and held signs that had phrases, such as “Big Oil bought Andy Harris. Don’t buy his B.S.” A group called Indivisible Worcester County Maryland sent out a news release ahead of the meeting that said members of the organization would come out to protest.

“On Saturday [Harris] will undoubtedly peddle more lies copied from oil and gas lobbyists. I don’t think he will stop trying to destroy our environment until Ocean City is drowning,” said Toby Perkins, a coordinator for Indivisible Worcester Maryland, in the release.

The audience inside the meeting, however, showed solid support for the speakers with spontaneous applause punctuating portions of the meeting.

When it came time for Del. Wayne Hartman’s (R-38C) turn at the rostrum, he cited a 2016 survey by North Carolina State University’s Center for Environmental and Resource Economic Policy that found that roughly 55 percent of respondents said they would not rent a vacation home if turbines were visible from the shore.

Meehan asked why an economic

HUNTER HINE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Protestors stand out in the cold holding signs before last Saturday’s hearing that U.S. Rep. Andy Harris (R-01) hosted on offshore wind at the Ocean City convention center.

impact analysis wasn’t conducted along with the environmental assessment.

“What is being proposed would destroy what 26,000 property owners and 8 million visitors enjoy each year.

Not just today, but for future generations. Building turbines closer than 26 nautical miles off our coast, or even more disturbing, as close as 10 miles from our shoreline, would destroy that national phenomenon forever. The sunrise over the Atlantic would look like a backdrop from Star Wars,” Meehan said.

Schrawder said that BOEM’s own environmental impact assessment lists recreational fishing as an item that could face adverse impacts from turbines. Fishing tournaments in Ocean City can generate as much as $16 million dollars, and it could mean lost tax money for local and state governments if the industry is ruined by wind farms, Schrawder said.

Meghan Lapp, secretary for the Center for Sustainable Fisheries and representative for Seafreeze, a commercial fishing company in Rhode Island, was the first panelist. She argued that wind farms disrupt fishing territory and endanger the safety of commercial fishing vessels.

“As BOEM has leased more than 2.3 million acres of the East Coast to date and is preparing to lease more, we are rapidly losing our place of business,” Lapp said.

Other speakers also reiterated worries about the turbines’ effect on whales.

Harris said that “sonar blasting” in 2016, which was used to survey potential wind farm leasing areas off the North-Atlantic coast, correlated with a spike in whale deaths around the same time. Harris said there is no evidence to support or deny any connection between the testing and whale deaths.

Panelist Lisa Linowes, executive director and spokesperson for the Wind Action Group and co-founder

of the Save Right Whales Coalition, told Harris that while she is convinced there is a connection, she can only say that there is a “strong correlation.”

NOAA, however, says, “There are no known links between recent large whale mortalities and ongoing offshore wind surveys.”

Robert Rand, owner of Rand Acoustics, LLC, another panelist, said that in May, he compared underwater sound levels from a wind industry sonar survey vessel off of New Jersey, and measured sound levels from piledriving work off Nantucket in November.

He claimed the noise levels he recorded underwater were inconsistent with permitting documents and loud enough to affect whales.

“The high sonar and pile-driving noise levels and irregularities in project and regulatory documents raise strong concerns about insufficient review in mitigation distances to protect the critically endangered species from behavioral harassment and hearing impacts,” Rand said.

Harris and others also raised concerns over the wind farms’ effect on radar systems used by the U.S. military and the ability for the Coast Guard to perform helicopter rescues.

Several speakers also questioned whether it was right to lease U.S. energy systems to European-owned companies. US Wind is owned by Italian company Renexia.

The last panelist was Travis Fisher, director of energy and environmental policy studies at the Cato Institute, a self-described libertarian, public policy think tank. Fisher said that Maryland’s wind construction mandates could create large increases in utility bills, and that the increases would hit harder for lower-income residents.

“The impact on the local economy and tourism, and the negative effects on marine life, fishing and the military, taken together are unacceptable risks,” Carozza said during a speech.

JANUARY 26, 2024

PAGE 7

Ocean City Today

Ocean City planners discuss tourism details Tom Perlozzo presents info on department during work session about comp plan

By Bethany Hooper Contributing Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) Resort planners last week got a better understanding of tourism data as they look to update Ocean City’s comprehensive plan.

Last Wednesday, the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission invited Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo to participate in a work session for the comprehensive plan update. City Planner Bill Neville said Perlozzo’s knowledge of tourism data would assist commission members as they begin to update the planning document.

“It’s the fun facts about Ocean City that are imbedded in our comprehensive plan and pulled out to help the community,” he explained. “That’s really how we’re getting started today.”

In December, the commission began an update of the city’s comprehensive plan, which guides land use – such as housing, commercial, recreation and public facilities – within the community. The most recent update, Neville said, was completed in 2017 and adopted in 2018.

As part of that effort, several guests will be invited to work sessions of the planning commission to offer their insights as it pertains to specific chapters of the comprehensive plan.

Neville told commissioners last week the first two sections of the planning document address community character, economic development and census demographics.

“What we’ve relied on in the past is going to our tourism director for a lot of that information,” he said.

Neville said the goal of the meeting was to have Perlozzo review tourism data and consider any changes to the comprehensive plan.

“What I think is interesting is finding out what information the tourism department collects,” he said. “Is it identifying a trend we should weave into the comp plan this year?”

For his part, Perlozzo said prior to his hiring in 2021, the tourism department collected visitation numbers using demoflush, a metric system that uses wastewater output to determine population. He noted, however, that those statistics didn’t necessarily reflect the number of visitors in town.

“I don’t know how that was collected,” he said, “but I didn’t think that was too reliable for what we needed to do.”

Since that time, the tourism department has used several software platforms – including Zartico, Placer AI and AirDNA – to track visitation and foot traffic and collect consumer data. He said those tools have been

helpful in developing a new brand and advertising campaign for Ocean City.

“Sometime about six months after that we made a concerted effort to get some intelligence to allow us to look at market trends, look at visitor origins and help us better market the resort and create an opportunity to make it a year-round destination,” he said.

Neville noted the planning commission expressed interest in developing a survey that would assist the city in updating its comprehensive plan. He asked if the tourism department also used surveys.

“It’s one of those things we’re thinking about for the land use side of things,” he said. “Is there still value to completing a user survey of basically town residents or visitors?”

Perlozzo said the tourism department used focus groups and surveys as part of its rebranding effort. He said the town collected 5,000 responses.

“That’s really the only survey-type stuff we’ve done in the last two years,” he replied.

Neville also asked if the state produced tourism data that tracked tax revenue, visitation and employment.

Perlozzo replied that an annual report was provided online.

“The number that’s really interesting is how much money tourism is saving each individual income tax holder in Maryland based upon tourism efforts they put together,” he said.

Neville said a significant challenge the city faced was using census data, which measured the permanent pop-

ulation on April 1. He said that didn’t accurately reflect Ocean City’s population.

“As I was going through this, when we pull that information out of the census data, and plug it into our Chapter 1, I have this sense it’s not capturing what’s unique about Ocean City,” he said. “It’s not necessarily providing us with information that then leads to the recommendations we put into the plan.”

Officials also highlighted issues with using demoflush to track visitation. Perlozzo said he felt confident the tourism department’s new tracking software better reflects population.

“We’d like to build a new measuring tool …,” Neville told Perlozzo.

“What is a real value is not any one See DATA Page 8

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 26, 2024

Convention center upgrade bids all come in over budget Reconstruction of elevators, escalator could be costlier than $1.74M expectation

By Bethany Hooper Contributing Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) Bids for an improvement project at the Ocean City convention center came in over budget at a City Council work session earlier this month.

On Jan. 9, the mayor and council opened bids for an elevator and escalator reconstruction project at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center.

While the total budgeted amount for both projects stands at $1.74 million, officials shared combined bids that exceeded the cost estimate.

Council Secretary Tony DeLuca opened bids from four companies. He said companies could submit three bids – one for the elevator renovations, one for escalator replacement option A, and one for escalator replacement option B. Action Elevator submitted a $1,407,795 bid for the elevator renovations and a $1,238,196 bid for escalator replacement option B. Delaware Elevator submitted a $1,419,988 bid for the elevator renovations, a $1.22 million bid for escalator replacement option A and a $1,268,640 bid for escalator replace-

ment option B. Kone Elevator submitted a $1,315,104 bid for the elevator renovations and a $1.27 million bid for escalator replacements, though no option was given. Otis Elevator submitted a $1.461 million bid for the elevator renovations and a $1.038 million bid for escalator replacements, though no option was given.

Councilman John Gehrig clarified that that the city would be selecting one bid for the elevator renovations and one bid for the escalator replacement project.

“So, elevators is number one, but escalators is either/or …,” he said. “So it’s adding up two, not three.”

Mayor Rick Meehan questioned the extent of the elevator renovations.

Officials noted that the project would include renovations to four elevators – the large freight elevator, a small freight elevator, a north passenger elevator and the south passenger elevator.

“So that’s for the renovation/rehabilitation of all four elevators, not just one,” Meehan said.

With no further discussion, Councilman Peter Buas moved to acknowledge the bids and remand them to staff for further review. The motion, seconded by Councilman Will Savage, passed in a 6-0 vote with Councilwoman Carol Proctor absent.

Data to be used in plan update Continued from Page 7 given year but year-over-year comparisons. So, as you start to collect this data over the next few years, it will be really helpful.”

Neville encouraged commission members to consider census and tourism data as they suggest changes to the comprehensive plan. While he acknowledged tourism as the resort’s primary industry, he said topics such as aging and housing were also important.

“Think about things as we move forward in these 10-year increments,” he said. “What do we think best represents where we think Ocean City is?

I think it’s interesting to start with tourism, and we recognize that as the primary industry of our community.

But we can’t, when we get to the housing chapter, ignore the fact that we have a secondary primary industry, which is the support for the businesses that provide the entertainment.”

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MALLORY PANUSKA AMES/OCEAN CITY TODAY

OC Council OKs code change set to allow habitable attics

By Bethany Hooper Contributing Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) Ocean City officials last week approved a zoning code amendment that will allow habitable attics in residences, but only agreed on the move after making a compromise on parking requirements.

Ocean City Council members voted 6-1 on Jan. 16 to approve the second reading of an ordinance to amend the city’s zoning code. While the change will allow attics to be considered living space in residential homes, it also redefined accessory rooms, essentially tacking on parking parameters for multifamily units.

“An accessory room does not require any additional spaces for a detached single-family home,” said City Manager Terry McGean. “It does for an attached townhouse/condominium. It requires half a space.”

In October, following a public hearing, the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously to forward proposed code amendments to the mayor and council with a favorable recommendation.

The changes defined dormers and habitable attics, revised the definition of building height to allow habitable attic space, and amended the minimum number of off-street parking spaces to require one additional space for any enclosed loft or habitable attic in a single-family detached home and one additional half space for any enclosed loft or habitable attic in multi-family homes.

However, when the proposed code amendment was brought before the council at a work session in November, the added parking requirements were removed.

Since then, officials have debated if such parking requirements are necessary for habitable attic space. Supporters argued a lack of added parking would affect residential neighborhoods, while opponents

countered that the city code already addressed parking requirements.

With the amendment back on the agenda last week for a second reading, Councilman Peter Buas proposed a change that would not incorporate supplemental parking but would redefine accessory rooms to include finished habitable attics. He said in doing so, it would require an additional half space for multifamily homes.

“I think it’s a fair compromise,” he said.

City Solicitor Heather Stansbury told council members last week the planning commission initially proposed an ordinance to allow habitable attics after recognizing an ongoing problem. Instead of stopping people from using attics as habitable space, she said they saw an opportunity to include certain parking requirements.

“In an effort to legitimize what they knew was already occurring, they thought this amendment made the most sense because it’s happening anyway,” she explained. “This at least made them have parking.”

Councilman John Gehrig said he did not want to allow habitable attics without first discussing short-term rentals. He argued that allowing additional sleeping space in attics would only exacerbate occupancy issues and parking problems in residential neighborhoods.

“We’re assuming it’s one bedroom with a bed up there. There are attics with multiple rooms, where you can put a couple of twin beds or bunk beds,” he explained. “If that house turns into a rental, you can put more people in some of these homes than a hotel. I don’t care if it’s one extra space if you’re going to eventually have 15 people visiting a vacation rental in a neighborhood.”

Councilman Frank Knight said he agreed with Gehrig. He argued the See COMPROMISE Page 9

JANUARY 26, 2024

PAGE 9

Ocean City Today

County gets deal on new portable

By Mallory Panuska Ames manded all units and divisions of the to spur sustainable tourism growth Managing Editor central Maryland department and and keep Ocean City “SOMEWHERE radios for staff (Jan. 26, 2024) Montego Bay resi- implemented a number of the law en- TO SMILE ABOUT” and a world-

Yates files for ‘24 OC Council seat dent Larry R. Yates officially kicked off Ocean City’s 2024 election this week as the first person to file for City Council.

Yates, a retired police captain, announced his candidacy in a news release issued Tuesday.

He is running on a platform of “CITY AND COMMUNITY TEAM,” and vows to “work together to continue making Larry R. Yates Ocean City a wonderful place to live, work, and visit.”

The release said he also has several other platforms and priorities that he believes will accomplish the goals and visions of the city and enhance the quality of life of residents “based on responsible government leadership and policies.”

Yates was raised in Cecil County, but he and his wife, Rebecca, daughter, and granddaughter have been visiting the Ocean City since early childhood. He became a part-time resident in 2001 and moved to Ocean City full time in 2016.

The release said Yates is proud of his lifelong career in law enforcement and community service, which began in 1968 with the Maryland State and Rockville City police departments in Rockville. He worked through the ranks and became a captain/deputy chief before retiring with 25 years of active service.

During his tenure, Yates com-

forcement patrol, investigative, crime-reducing, and community-oriented initiatives still in effect today.

He received commendations and awards during his time in office, including Police Office of the Year on more than one occasion.

After his retirement, Yates worked as the manager of Homeland Security, Anti-terrorism Task Force, post 9/11 with the American Trucking Associations in Alexandria, Virginia.

Yates works today in the local public safety and service sector as a parttime bonfire compliance inspector with the Ocean City Fire Marshal’s office.

The release said Yates “appreciates the hard work of dedicated town employees who help make the day-today operations run smoothly and professionally.”

As a concerned resident, Yates attends mayor and council meetings and work sessions and has learned a great deal about government interests, priorities and needs, and the desires of fellow community members, business representatives and visitors.

Yates currently lives with his wife in the Montego Bay community in north Ocean City.

“If elected, Yates commits to improving the overall quality of life for property owners and visitors while maintaining sensible government and affordable, consistent tax rates,” the release said. “Larry is proud to promote the town and all its businesses positively and professionally

class destination.”

City Clerk Diana Chavis said in an email Tuesday that Yates was the first and only person to file for City Council so far. She also said he is the only person so far to pick up a candidate packet.

A total of four council seats, currently held by Councilmen Peter Buas, Tony DeLuca, John Gehrig and Frank Knight, and the mayor’s seat will be on the Nov. 5 ballot. Council members run every four years on staggered terms, while the mayor is elected every two years. The candidate filing deadline is Oct. 8.

To learn more about the city election, visit oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/city-clerk/election/.

Continued from Page 8 rental situation needed to be addressed at the council’s next joint meeting with the planning commission. He added that it also warranted a discussion with the board of zoning appeals.

“It seems like at every meeting, they are approving parking variances,” he said. “Last week at their meeting, they had six spaces they had gotten rid of. That’s something we can address with the BZA.” Gehrig said the city code does little to regulate short-term rentals. While he argued he didn’t care what people did inside their homes, he does care about the impact it could have on the neighborhood.

“I only really care about what’s outside,” he said. “I’m not saying people can’t rent their homes. But we need parameters, so they are not destroying our neighborhoods and passing an ordinance that allows us to put in more beds and turn these big homes into hotels.”

Mayor Rick Meehan echoed

Gehrig’s concerns.

“I think the rental situation has been a problem for a long time.

There’s been three- and four-bedroom houses throughout Ocean City I think have become heavy rentals … ,” he said. “Now we’re seeing because some of the houses are bigger it’s a little more visible. There are more people than there were before.”

Following a lengthy discussion, the council voted 6-1, with Gehrig opposed, to approve the amended ordinance on second reading. The ordinance now defines a finished habitable attic as an accessory room, which would require an additional half parking space for multifamily units and townhomes.

“What Mr. Buas offered is a good minimum step to ensure we adopt new definitions of habitable attic and dormer space and enclosed lofts …,” said City Planner Bill Neville. “It’s a good way to add the new definitions and keep everything else status quo until we solve some of these problems.”

By Charlene Sharpe Contributing Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) Worcester County officials agreed last week to take advantage of a sale to purchase new emergency services radios.

At the request of Worcester County Emergency Services staff, the Worcester County Commissioners unanimously to spend $338,914 to purchase additional radios. The purchase will meet the needs of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and will supply local fire companies with new radios.

“I do think it’s an opportunity to See COST Page 10

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JANUARY 26, 2024

Ocean City Today

Cost down $4,800 per radio with discount Continued from Page 9 save some money,” Commissioner Jim Bunting said.

Director of Emergency Services Billy Birch told the commissioners L3Harris was offering discounted pricing on the portable radios the county used. He said the radios, which were typically more than $7,500 each, were on sale for $2,700 each. He said the county needed 41 portable radios for the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office.

Because the pricing was discounted, Birch said he had also re-

viewed radios that were needed by the county’s fire companies. If the county were to supply the fire and EMS crews with radios as well, that would be another 58 portable radios and 17 mobile radios. Birch noted that would cost $338,914.

Assistant Director of Emergency Services James Hamilton told the commissioners purchasing new radios would allow the oldest radios to be cycled out, as the county typically gave the newest radios to public safety personnel and gave the radios they’d been using to public works. The purchase of

radios now would mean that some of the seriously old ones currently used by public works could be replaced with the seven-year-old ones in use now.

“We pass them down,” he said.

Hamilton said pricing like what was currently proposed had never been seen on radios.

“We felt it our obligation to bring forward that much of a savings to you,” he said.

Commissioner Eric Fiori suggested the cost seemed too good to be true and asked if Hamilton knew what had prompted the discount.

“I have not been able to get an official answer,” Hamilton said. “What I would say is a rumor I have heard is they were anticipating an extremely large order that did not materialize.

They may be sitting on excess inventory.”

Birch added that the new radios were more user-friendly and had the potential for additional features the county’s current radios didn’t have.

The commissioners voted unanimously to approve purchasing the radios. Staff said casino revenues would likely be used to fund the purchase.

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PAGE 11

Ocean City Today

Berlin chooses Heron Park demo contractor Low bid for work way below grant amount, construction set to start within 30 days

By Charlene Sharpe Contributing Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) Demolition work at Heron Park in Berlin is expected to start within 30 days following selection of a contractor this week.

The Berlin Town Council on Monday accepted a $112,715 bid from JNT Enterprises for the demolition of three sections of the former processing plant at Heron Park. Company representatives are also expected to provide the town with a price for demolishing even more of the old building. Elected officials want to clear as much of the site as they can with the town’s $500,000 strategic demolition grant.

“We’re not trying to be difficult we’re just trying to fully expend the grant,” Mayor Zack Tyndall said.

Earlier this month, the town received two bids in response to a request for proposals (RFP) for the demolition of the middle section of the old processing building. The town asked for prices on tearing down sections one and two of the structure, the portions in the worst condition, as well as prices for adding in section

FILE PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

A cone blocks off the entrance to Heron Park in Berlin.

three. Including alternates, Reynolds Excavating bid $452,500 and JNT Enterprises bid $112,715.

Officials acknowledged the disparity in bids this week. Justin Miller of JNT Enterprises said he could only speak for the proposal he’d submit-

ted.

“We cut you a fair price,” he said.

“That’s what we were going for.”

Council members were eager to know what JNT Enterprises would charge for knocking down even more of the old processing plant. Miller

said he’d have to run the numbers and could provide cost estimates in a couple weeks.

Andrew Welch of Davis, Bowen & Friedel Inc. pointed out that no one yet knew the foundation conditions See COUNCIL Page 12

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 26, 2024

Council satisfied with low bidder, members serve as an invaluable reoccur.

Emergency department will Key highlights of the program: source when emergency services per- ready to do demo offer free response training Empowering Citizens — The sonnel are unable to reach everyone

OCPD slated to host CERT training to prep residents for crises

(Jan. 26, 2024) The Ocean City Department of Emergency Services’ Community Emergency Response Team, or CERT, training program is set to begin on March 21.

According to a news release, the free training program is a communitybuilding initiative designed to empower residents in Ocean City and surrounding areas to be self-reliant in times of crisis. By participating in the training, participants can play crucial response and assistance roles during all types of catastrophic disastersthat

CERT program equips participants with essential skills to recognize and respond to natural and man-made hazards within the community.

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immediately following a disaster.

The CERT program is a free training course that will meet once a week in the evening hours for eight weeks. There is a limited class size, and applicants must be 16 to participate. Interested participants must complete an application and allow the Ocean City Police Department to conduct a background check.

Ocean City Emergency Services Department staff encourage interested residents to register for the program. To learn more about the program, and secure a spot, visit oceancitymd.gov/cert. For inquiries, contact occert@gmail.com.

Continued from Page 11 workers would find on the portion of the building that will be left closer to the road and the portion of the building more toward the back of the property once the middle section was torn down.

Councilman Steve Green said JNT Enterprises had come highly recommended.

“The value we’re going to get out of this work is welcome,” he said.

Tyndall said town officials were grateful to receive the two bids that were submitted for the demolition, which has been discussed for years.

“We’re really looking forward to working together on the project,” he said.

After the council accepted the bid, Councilman Jack Orris asked about the future of Heron Park.

“We probably should decide what we want to do with this property,” he said.

Green said if the town sold the land outright it would have no say in what was done with the property after that.

David Gaskill, the town attorney, said if officials wanted to try selling the land again, the best way to do that was by seeking proposals. He said that while an RFP wasn’t required it would give officials more influence on the future of the property.

“I think the RFP process if you want control is cleaner,” he said.

Tyndall said it was too early to begin drafting an RFP since officials didn’t yet know how much of the processing plant would end up being demolished.

“I think we need those add-ons first so we have a clear idea of what we’re doing. I think we’re at least 45 days out before we can start shaping an RFP,” he said.

Town Administrator Mary Bohlen agreed and said the town was about to start the budget development process.

“There’s still a lot to be done,” Bohlen said.

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PAGE 13

Ocean City Today

Legislature begins tackling budget Local lawmakers want to see more money going to shore over Baltimore area

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) As the 2024 session of the Maryland General Assembly reached full momentum this week, lawmakers took up the challenge of finding ways to eliminate the $322 million shortfall between revenue and expenses expected this year.

The state’s financial forecasters say if this situation is not cured, Maryland could be spending $2.1 billion more than it takes in by Fiscal Year 2029.

For this year, the Moore-Miller Administration has unveiled its Fiscal Year 2025 budget proposal, which includes $63.1 billion for programs involving affordable housing, childcare, safety and the economy.

Of that, $270 million is being allocated to the Childcare Scholarship Program, $110 million will be used for rental housing investment, $35 million is planned for the Victims of Crime Act and $100 million is to support the location of the new FBI headquarters in Greenbelt.

The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, an initiative to improve the quality of public education statewide via a $3.8 billion yearly funding increase over the next 10 years, was also a focal point. The administration intends for the project to be financed in the next fiscal cycle. The plan for the following years is unclear. While temporary solutions are made, continuing questions regarding the education proposal and other potential cuts are left unanswered.

“The budget does ignore some long-term issues of funding for things like the Blueprint and transportation,” House Appropriations Chair Ben Barnes (D- Prince George’s and Anne Arundel counties) told Maryland Matters. “I think that is something that we should not put off until tomorrow. These are things that Marylanders are expecting us to solve now and things we need to get to work on this session.”

Moore noted at a statehouse press briefing that the budget is free of tax hikes. Instead, it will transfer money from specific programs to others to remedy the gap. It will also take $150 million from the rainy-day fund to reverse the damage from transportation cuts and will go toward the highway user revenue, which is used

to fund local governments and their road maintenance.

Overall, reception for the proposed budget was optimistic but will be dissected more as the session continues.

“I was happy to see a budget that avoids excessive tax increases,” Delegate Wayne Hartman (R-38C) said.

“However, it’s a little Baltimore-centric. I want more money to be spent on the shore, so I’ll fight for those special projects.”

At the top of those ventures is the planned Ocean City Sports Complex, which requires an 80-20 split in cost

‘I was happy to see a budget that avoids excessive tax increases.

However, it’s a little Baltimorecentric. I want more money to be spent on the shore, so I’ll fight for those special projects.’

Delegate Wayne Hartman (R-38C)

between the state and the town.

On Jan. 15, Hartman met with members of the union that work at Ocean Downs Casino and the residents opposed to iGaming, the system that would allow all gambling to be played from a cell phone or computer.

Supporters argue an online casino platform will bring in needed revenue for Maryland amid the funding shortfall. However, Hartman said a Maryland Lottery study has estimated that if approved, electronic betting will result in the termination of 10 percent of Ocean Downs employees. Additionally, he worries that it will increase gambling addiction in the state.

Also introduced during the session was the Maryland Legislative Jewish Caucus of the General Assembly. The committee was announced last week

by Senate and House co-chairs, Sen. Shelly Hettleman (D- Baltimore County) and Delegate Jared Solomon (D- Montgomery County).

Maryland Matters reported that the caucus, which includes the 20 Jewish lawmakers in the legislature, will work diligently to combat rising antisemitism, celebrate Jewish culture and heritage in Maryland, and serve as a liaison to local, statewide, and national organizations serving Jewish residents.

Eastern Shore representatives are busy in the weeks ahead. The Hartman-sponsored Economic Competi-

ment

tiveness Act, which aims to reduce corporate income tax from 8.25 percent to 6.25 percent over five taxable years was introduced last session but remains a priority for the delegate.

A hearing for another bill sponsored by Hartman — a potential 1 percent increase in hotel room taxes — is scheduled for Feb. 1 The proposal will affect Worcester, Queen Anne’s, Caroline’s, and Kent Counties.

According to Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38C), the bill to establish training and qualifications for child custody evaluators who assist family law courts in deciding custody outcomes in cases of abuse allegations, Senate Bill 365, will be heard on Feb 8.

“I have heard from parents, advocates, and legal child custody experts for years that there is no consistent training for custody evaluators, whose recommendations are given heavy weight by judges,” Carozza said in her weekly update press release.

“These child custody cases involving allegations of domestic violence and child abuse are among the most sensitive and traumatic issues, and there is a fundamental need to ensure adequate training and qualifications for these important child custody evaluators.”

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 26, 2024

Diakonia seeking options after sewer denial Nonprofit’s long-planned expansion in jeopardy in wake of commissioner vote

By Charlene Sharpe Contributing Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) The future of Diakonia’s long-planned expansion is in jeopardy following a decision by county officials last week.

Supporters of Diakonia are exploring options in the wake of the Worcester County Commissioners’ decision not to approve Diakonia’s plan to acquire sewer capacity from the Town of Ocean City. The nonprofit, which has provided emergency housing, food assistance and other resources to those in need in the Ocean City area since the 1970s, needs the capacity to expand services

with a new facility on Route 611.

“It’s unfortunate to see things come to this,” Del. Wayne Hartman (R-38) said. “Diakonia is such a great asset to the Town of Ocean City and Worcester County.”

Last week, the commissioners voted 4-3 not to support Diakonia’s agreement with Ocean City, which would have provided the nonprofit with the necessary wastewater treatment capacity needed to build its new facility on Route 611. Commissioners Joe Mitrecic, Diana Purnell and Ted Elder supported the request but the majority of the board did not.

Those opposed to the request said the issue was larger than Diakonia.

They said there were other entities that had been waiting for EDUs (Equivalent Dwelling Unit, a measure of wastewater treatment capacity)

and that a level playing field was needed. Commissioner Chip Bertino said it was also an issue of control.

“One of the realities is people who have their businesses or reside within county limits should not have to go to Ocean City or anybody else to determine what they can and can’t do with their land,” Bertino said last week.

“The only guardians of the county’s interests within our jurisdiction are the seven of us.”

While they didn’t approve the Diakonia request, the commissioners did vote unanimously to have staff start discussions with Ocean City officials regarding the possibility of the town granting the county sewer capacity since the Mystic Harbour service area is at maximum capacity.

“In essence Worcester County is holding Diakonia and the Town of Ocean City hostage for additional capacity, which isn’t Diakonia or Ocean City’s problem,” Hartman said.

Reid Tingle, chair of Diakonia’s board, thanked Ocean City leaders as well as Mitrecic, Purnell and Elder for their support.

“It is unfortunate that the ‘Gang of Four’ decided to play politics with people’s lives and wellbeing instead of doing what is in the best interest of the citizens and communities they were elected to represent,” he said.

Tingle indicated he was disappointed but not surprised by the majority’s vote, particularly since Diakonia representatives met with a couple of them earlier this month.

“We did finally meet with the selected commissioners and were clearly told they would not allow the proposal to go through,” he said. “Various reasons were presented, starting with it is not fair for us to just go to the top of the list. We asked who was on the list and were quickly told there is no list. Then we were told another project could create a larger tax base that would bring more revenue into the county than our project. Finally, it came out that they wanted control, and did not want Ocean City to have any say in what they could or could not develop in what they perceive as their area.”

He said their recommended solution to the sewer capacity issue was for Diakonia to sell the Route 611 property and build somewhere else.

Tingle said Diakonia supporters were hoping to find another option.

“We are currently looking into and pursuing options at the state and federal level that would allow us to move forward without the support of the Gang of Four,” he said. “If there are no options on the state or federal level, barring a white knight coming forward and offering some sewer capacity, the project cannot move forward at this time.”

Hartman said he’d reached out to the Maryland Department of the En-

vironment and the attorney general’s office to see if there was anything that could be done.

“I think we really need to have this project move forward,” he said.

Even if there is a way for the project to move forward, the nonprofit can’t pursue fundraising opportunities with the future of the project in question.

“The wait on EDUs creates problems in that we are trying to prepare for building without the ability to begin raising those funds,” said Ken Argot, executive director of Diakonia.

“When we received the initial nod of concept, we began to prepare for funding certain aspects of the project, however with continued delays and uncertainty of the project with no concrete date in the future, we are left in ‘no man’s land’ when it comes to our requests for public funding. We don’t want to misinform the public when we don’t yet have official approval. But there is also a real concern in approaching donors for current operation projects, without overburdening them with an additional ask for building capital should the 611 project be approved quicker.”

Argot said the lack of affordable housing was the primary cause of homelessness in America. He said if there weren’t enough homes out there for people to purchase, those who can afford to purchase have to settle on rentals, which are then no longer available to people who aren’t able to buy their own homes. Argot said that many times, people aren’t able to move out of shelters like Diakonia because affordable rentals are rare. He said that was why Diakonia’s project on Route 611 was so important.

“The reason that so many of our homeless are out in the streets, in front of stores, or camping out in wooded areas, is because there is literally no place to go,” Argot said.

If Diakonia can build a new facility on its Route 611 land, it can not only house more people but would be able to have a larger food pantry and more office space. Currently, even when donors have food for Diakonia, the nonprofit doesn’t have adequate storage to be able to accept it. Veterans, when working with case managers to get services, don’t have private space to meet. Furthermore, the ability of Diakonia’s thrift store to generate income for the nonprofit is limited by space.

“Our thrift store raises about 10 percent of our annual income, with the potential to do more,” Argot said.

“However, our limited space means less room for bulk-in kind donations, and the need to rent additional space when we try to store seasonal donations for the next year. Often, we can’t even take in-kind donations because we have no warehouse space.”

www.oceancitytoday.com

JANUARY 26, 2024

PAGE 15

Ocean City Today

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A sign in the lobby of the Ocean City convention center celebrates the Blood Bank of Delmarva’s 25th year of holding its annual blood drive in Ocean City.

Ocean City Blood Drive kicks off with lofty 25th year goals

By Tara Fischer Staff Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) The Blood Bank of Delmarva got off to a good start with its 25th annual Ocean City Blood Drive at the Ocean City convention center Monday, with 270 appointments already booked in the threeday campaign.

On the first day of the Silver Jubilee event, the busiest time was just after noon. The drive was open from 9 a.m. to 5 pm on Tuesday, and Wednesday was the quietest day, with slots available from 9 a.m. to 3 pm. Participants received an Ocean City Blood Drive T-shirt.

The blood bank reached a record in 2021 with 685 total donors but hoped to see between 825 and 1,000 contributors during this year’s anniversary.

“We’re reaching for the stars, but if we land on the moon, we’re fine with that,” communications specialist Tony Prado said. “It’s the silver jubilee. We want to honor that milestone by making it the best.”

Prado emphasized the importance of location. Blood donors were welcomed with a calming view of Assawoman Bay, with evening appointment-holders having the opportunity to watch the sunset over the water.

Whole blood donors have always had the inviting scenery, but the BBD adjusted last year to allow the same seascape to the double red cell section.

“That special donation gets us twice as many red cells. It’s a great product. We tailored their spot so they can get that spectacular view.

We listened to our donors and made

that change,” Prado said. The alteration will continue and is important to ensure a pleasant experience for the generous residents.

According to Prado, the FDA updated its regulations earlier this year to allow gay and bisexual men in monogamous relationships to donate. That community was previously barred from giving because of HIV concerns. The donor registration was revised to encourage an individualized assessment. No one who wants to give blood will be excluded, and BBD is optimistic that the change will positively affect donation numbers.

The Blood Bank of Delmarva will keep shooting for increased contributors each year. “Only three percent of eligible donors in the United States give blood,” Prado said. “Anytime we can get people willing and able to donate, it’s a great thing.”

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A sign in front of the entrance of the Ocean City convention center on Monday advertises the Blood Bank of Delmarva’s annual blood drive.

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PAGE 16

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 26, 2024

County seeks help for Rt. 12 drainage issues Commissioners slated to send letter to state after flooding from recent storm

By Charlene Sharpe Contributing Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) Flooding on Route 12 during a rainstorm earlier this month prompted county officials to ask the state for drainage improvements.

The Worcester County Commissioners voted unanimously last week to send a letter to Maryland Secretary of Transportation Paul Wiedefeld asking for drainage improvements north of the Route 12 bridge in Snow Hill.

“This is a request we have in our Consolidated Transportation Plan we

submit each year but no remedy is in sight and we would like to express the importance of fixing this for our citizens, our employees and everyone else impacted by this evacuation route being inundated,” said Weston Young, the county’s chief administrative officer.

Motorists in Snow Hill were advised to use alternate routes as Route 12 was under water for about three days following a storm on Jan. 9.

Commissioner Chip Bertino said a resident had reached out in hopes county officials could share concerns with the Maryland Department of Transportation. The commissioners voted unanimously during last week’s meeting to send a letter to the state asking for expedited drainage im-

provements.

“Our gravest concerns surround the impacts roadway flooding may have on public safety,” the letter reads. “Time is of the essence when emergencies arise. Lives could be jeopardized if detours impede the public from evacuating in a crisis or if emergency personnel are delayed from providing critically needed assistance or accessing area hospitals during emergencies.”

According to the letter, Route 12 is a designated evacuation even though it floods during even moderate rain events. While that state’s “Turn Around Don’t Drown” campaign highlights the dangers of floodwater, the closest alternate route for motorists traveling on Route 12 nearly

OCVFC VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

Wells finds brotherhood in OCVFC

By Steve Price Contributing Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) This week we are pleased to recognize Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Life Member Scot Wells.

Scot grew up in the Bishopville area, graduating from Stephen Decatur High School. Following high school, Scot enlisted in the United States Navy. He served in the Navy for four years before returning to the Ocean City area. Scot retired as an emergency services communications shift supervisor for the Town of Ocean City in September 2021 after 25 years of service.

Firefighter Wells joined the OCVFC in 1995. He served as a firefighter during his 15 years of active service with the OCVFC and was also elected by the members to serve as secretary and as a member of the board of directors.

When asked his reason for joining the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company, Firefighter Wells replied: “After returning from the US Navy, I was

striving to find that brotherhood that I enjoyed while in the service and I was looking to give back to the community that raised me. My grandfather also encourScot Wells aged me to join the volunteer fire company stating the members of the OCVFC were some of the best and I could definitely learn a thing or two from them, which I did.”

Scot did not point out a single significant event in his fire service career but said being on the fireground with OCVFC leaders Chief David Cropper, Captain/Asst. Chief Mike Hastings, Chief Roger Steger and so many others was significant to him and always an opportunity to learn.

Wells cites his two greatest accomplishments in the fire service as being certified as an emergency medical technician by the Maryland Institute

for Emergency Medical Services Systems and earning the trust and confidence of his fellow volunteers after he was elected to serve as secretary and board member.

Given the opportunity to “pass on” advice to the members of the cadet program, or others with an interest in the fire service, Wells replied: “Listen and be a sponge. I unfortunately did not go through our Cadet Program, but it has produced some really great firefighters who have gone on to become outstanding officers and chiefs within the volunteer fire company.

The lifelong friends and knowledge gained since becoming a member has made me a better person in life.”

OCVFC members thank Firefighter Wells for his years of service to protect our nation’s freedoms and for his many years of service and commitment to the safety and well-being of our neighbors and visitors to our community.

For membership information or to learn more about the volunteer fire company, visit ocvfc.com.

doubles travel time. The added time is exacerbated by the fact that motorists typically don’t know the portion of roadway near the bridge is impassable until they get there.

“Because there is no reliable information system available, often commuters are unaware that MD Rt. 12 is impassable until the floodwaters are inches from their bumpers, leaving them grappling with weather to backtrack to an alternative route or to take the unwise risk of forging ahead into unknown depths, where smaller trucks and cars often become disabled,” the letter reads.

County officials believe the road needs to be raised with drainage structures added in order to stay passable during storm events.

JANUARY 26, 2024

Ocean City Today

PAGE 17

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JANUARY 26, 2024

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PAGE 20

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 26, 2024

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

(Left) The setup of the current library at Snow Hill Middle School. The space could get a makeover soon if media specialist Beau Williams wins a national contest he and a group of students recently entered. (Right) A rendering shows the proposed look of the new library if Williams wins the contest. He is up against two other finalists in his category.

SHMS library could undergo makeover with contest win Public encouraged to vote for Library Specialist Beau Williams’ design next week

By Taylor Sloan Features Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) Beau Williams, resident library media specialist at Snow Hill Middle School, recently entered a national media contest with the help of his fifth-grade enrichment students to bring a better library space to the school.

And after a rigorous voting process, he was named one of 12 final- Beau Williams ists vying for new furniture for the library from furniture maker KI. Williams was selected from hundreds of teachers who submitted designs for their dream classroom or library. The winners were divided into different categories, and four winners will each be awarded $40,000 worth of furniture to bring their visions to life.

“My gifted and talented students have been working with a program called Tinkercad,” Williams said.

Tinkercad is a program used to create 3D digital designs.

“I came across this on social media as an AI project,” Williams said.

With the help of his enrichment students, they together made design suggestions, and Williams combined the designs with his own to create a model library space to submit for the contest.

“This is student ran, and we are making a space really for students,” he said. “We wanted a space that is usable and versatile to meet the needs of the students.”

Williams received his degree in library sciences from McDaniel College, and he teaches media classes in general. His specialties also include a variety of STEAM incorporated projects and lessons.

The contest now goes to a public vote, with Williams hoping to beat out the two other finalists in the library category. The poll is open now through Wednesday, Jan. 31, at ki.com/designtowin. Winners will be announced next Friday, Feb. 2.

www.oceancitytoday.com

JANUARY 26, 2024

PAGE 21

Ocean City Today

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Blue Water Development CEO Jack Burbage, center, poses with several Blue Water Hospitality general managers and members of Atlantic General Hospital’s leadership team and a check from the company’s Blue Turns Pink Fundraiser that raised money for AGH’s Burbage cancer center.

Local company raises funds for Burbage Cancer Center Blue Water Development’s Blue Turns Pink campaign issues $42K check to AGH (Jan. 26, 2024) During the month of October, Ocean City-based real estate developer Blue Water Development held its first-ever Blue Turns Pink Fundraiser in support of cancer research and awareness initiatives.

All 63 of Blue Water’s properties, which span 21 states nationwide, took part in the fundraiser. Staff, patrons and members of the communities surrounding the company’s properties raised $42,000 to support people impacted by cancer.

Properties managed by Blue Water hosted a series of on-site events, with proceeds benefiting local community support organizations. The effort included theme weekends on local properties, on-site fundraisers, and raffles for stays at properties within

the Blue Water portfolio.

Throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Blue Water Development extended support to Atlantic General Hospital’s John H. ‘Jack’ Burbage, Jr. Regional Cancer Care Center in Berlin.

The center is named in honor of Blue Water’s founder, Jack Burbage, and stands as a tribute to his philanthropic and leadership contributions in the battle against cancer. Every Blue Turns Pink dollar raised for the Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center received a 100 percent matching contribution from an anonymous donor.

Overall, the Blue Turns Pink Fundraiser, with the help of an anonymous donor, raised $23,242 for the Burbage Regional Cancer Care Center. The proceeds will be used to buy cancer care equipment, including a fiber optic laryngoscope, vein finder and Hoyer lift that will improve cancer prevention, care and treatment.

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 26, 2024

commission Assateague employees get awards Aging offers resources to National Seashore issues accolades for island safety, standout staff performance (Jan. 19, 2024) Assateague Island National Seashore recently announced the winners of the annual Assateague Island Superintendent’s Award, and Assateague Island Safety Award.

According to a news release from the organization, the superintendent’s award is given to an employee or employees who have performed “above and beyond” during the previous year.

The safety award is given to an employee who has made a major contribution to the safety program or the safety culture of the park. The winner is chosen from peer nominations.

Lauren Kramer received the 2023 Assateague Island National Seashore Superintendent’s Award goes to Kramer serves as the geographic information system specialist for Assateague Island National Seashore.

Her work includes developing and managing spatial data sets that are used for creating digital maps and for other environmental research.

Kramer also implements the seashore’s beach and shoreline change monitoring program, which

ER M M U S ITES R O V FA IVING ARR W! NO

includes collecting field measurements on beach topography as well as the position of the ocean shoreline.

The release said the information contributes to officials’ understanding of how Assateague Island moves and changes over time, which allows them to plan responsibly for the future.

Following the retirement of the IT specialist in December 2022, Kramer, despite the job not being part of her position description, also provided reliable park-wide IT support to the organization from January to October of last year. She performed and array of duties that kept the organization’s infrastructure operational so everyone could do their jobs.

The runner up for the superintendent’s award was Park Facility Management Systems Specialist Bruce D’Alosio.

Merrit Kramer, a biological science technicians, was the recipient of the 2023 Assateague Island National Seashore Safety Award.

Kramer is responsible for monitoring water quality conditions and other aquatic resources throughout Assateague Island, collects monthly water samples from fixed sites in Sinepuxent and Chincoteague bays, as well as weekly ocean water sam-

ples during the summer months, to document long-term changes to the ecosystem and to protect public health.

The release said Kramer also makes safety her number one priority in her daily work and since she was hired, she has maintained her qualifications as a wilderness first responder, among other work and accomplishments.

She also represents the resource management division on the organizations safety committee and regularly attends and comes prepared to each meeting.

In this capacity she took a lead role in planning the 2023 Assateague Island Safety Day. The release said her work helped make the event a major success.

The two runner’s up for the Safety Award are Steven Braun and John Watson.

Braun is a lead fee collector and Watson is a maintenance mechanic it the Virginia District.

The two winners received crystal plaques and a time off award, while the runner ups received time off awards.

For general information about the seashore and park activities, visit the park’s web site at nps.gov/asis or call 410-641-1441.

help local seniors (Jan. 26, 2024) Worcester County Commission on Aging is a partner and friend of seniors living in Worcester County.

According to a news release, the organization has served more than 1,380 individuals throughout Fiscal Year 2023.

Below are the services provided: Senior Rides In 2023, The commission’s senior ride program served 218 seniors for a total of 16,110 rides, averaging 310 trips per week. The rides took seniors to doctors’ appointments, grocery stores, pharmacies, and 50plus Centers. To learn more about senior rides and ways to benefit from the program, visit worcoa.org/seniorride.

50Plus Activities The commission manages 50plus Centers in Pocomoke, Snow Hill, Berlin and Ocean City. In fiscal 2023, along with planned daily activities, members enjoyed 48 trips for meaningful experiences along the entire Delmarva Peninsula and to other destinations such as Baltimore; Annapolis; Lancaster, Pennsylvania; and See SERVICES Page 23

JANUARY 26, 2024

Ocean City Today

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Virtual poetry reading Wor-Wic Community College is hosting a free virtual poetry reading public by Jaswinder Bolina at y7 p.m., Feb. 1, via Zoom.

Bolina’s fourth poetry collection, “English as a Second Language and Other Poems,” was recently published

by Copper Canyon Press. His poems have appeared in American Poetry Review, Poetry, The New Yorker and Ploughshares.

Bolina is an associate professor and chair of the English and creative writing departments at the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida.

Visit the events section of worwic.edu for more information.

Best Wings on the Shore The annual Best Wings on the Shore Contest is set for 3 p.m., Feb. 4, at Crooked Hammock Brewery in Lewes.

The event raises money for Ocean 98’s Cash for College fund.

Entry fee is $20, charged at the door, and provide each attendee a judge’s ballot allowing for unlimited tastings of wings prepared for the event by local restaurants. The categories that will be judged are Best Overall, Most Creative and Hottest.

Mountaire Farms has returned as a presenting sponsor, and will donate fresh wings for all competing entries.

The event is family friendly, with children under 10 admitted at no charge.

The Ocean 98 Cash for College fund provides $5,000 awards each year to outstanding high school stu-

dents in Worcester, Wicomico and Sussex counties.

Women’s worship service Members of sisterhood affinity groups are invited to worship with fellow women of faith at 10 a.m., Jan. 28, at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Berlin.

The program will celebrate women’s emphasis in their faith walk and attendees are encouraged to journey together, reflect, and collectively worship as one. The spirit-filled commemorative service will feature a moving speaker, local choirs, and liturgical dancing. All are welcome.

For more information, contact at St. Paul’s Church at 410-641-0270, Lisa Bowen at 443-880-3986, or Darlene Jackson-Bowen at 443-6141554.

Monster truck show The No Limits Monster Trucks & Thrill Show is set for this weekend, Jan. 26 and 27, at the Wicomico Civic Center in Salisbury.

The show will feature wheelie and two wheel contests, and a freestyle event. For an extra fee, attendees can ride in a real monster truck through the arena. Those who want to race their own vehicles can pre-register for Tuff Truck races (for licensed drivers ages 18 and older) and kid’s Power Wheels races (ages 3-9). Call 940683-4742 for more information.

Tickets are available at WicomicoCivicCenter.org, by phone at 410-5484911, or in person at the box office.

Services for food, rides, more Continued from Page 22 Atlantic City, New Jersey. To learn more about 50plus Centers, visit worcoa.org/50plus.

Community for Life Community for Life is a membersonly program providing services for aging at home, such as handyman jobs, prescription pick-ups, salon/barber trips, transportation to and from medical appointments, grocery pick-up, friendly contacts/vendor referrals, and more. In 2023, Worcester County’s community for life program led the state, serving more than 130 members. To learn how to become a member in the program, visit worcoa.org/cfl.

Meals on Wheels Meals on Wheels continues to be a vital need for many vulnerable seniors. The demand for the program has increased partly due to the cut-

back in food stamp funding.The commission’s Meals on Wheels program has served more than 33,200 meals in fiscal 2023. To volunteer or learn more about the program, visit worcoa.org/mealsonwheels River Oaks Day Center River Oaks is an adult day center for individuals over the age of 16 who are disabled and/or medically compromised and in need of supervised daily care. Their services allow participants to join in activities that promote social, physical, and emotional well-being without permanently removing them from their families or communities. To learn more about the program visit worcoa.org/riveroaks.

For more information about the programs that are offered, or to contact Worcester Commission on Aging for other inquiries, call 410-632-1277 or visit worcoa.org.

Your Online Community: www.oceancitytoday.com

PAGE 23

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 26, 2024

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OCEAN CITY TODAY

MARINE EDUCATION (Left) Zeal Goolesby from the MERR Institute gives a presentation about marine education, research and rehabilitation at the Polish American Club of Delmarva’s January meeting. (Right) Steve Lesniewski, the vice president of the Polish American Club of Delmarva, poses with Goolesby.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

EMPTY BOWLS SUPPORT Members of the Polish American Club listen intently during the meeting as Goolesby gives her presentation.

From left, Ken Argot, the executive director of Diakonia; Rina Thaler, the executive director of the Art League of Ocean City; and Katrin Huber, art league education director, pose with a $1,000 check the art league recently presented to Diakonia on the Empty Bowl Project. The pottery project at the Ocean City Center for the Arts is dedicated to benefiting the programs of both nonprofits.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

QUILT ART ON DISPLAY SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

ANGLER CLUB ANNIVERSARY Ocean Pines Anglers Club member John McFalls, center, poses with fellow club members and a plaque he recently received for 28 years of service, including the last five as board administrator, with the group.

From left, quilters Etta Stewart, of Salisbury; Susan Callahan of Frankford, Delaware; Dale AsheraDavis of Berlin; Harriette Tuttle of Selbyville, Delaware; and Karen Stoll of Dagsboro, Delaware pose together in front of pieces they have on display in Studio E at the Ocean City Center for the Arts.

The quilters are part of the Studio Art Quilt Associates, Lower Eastern Shore Pod, who will be displaying their work through Jan. 27.

JANUARY 26, 2024

Ocean City Today

PAGE 25

COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS

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SUBMITTED PHOTOS/OCEAN CITY TODAY

WEATHER REPORT Meteorologist Rich Wirdzek from WMDT 47 News gave a presentation on his job as a weatherman to Ocean City Elementary School third grade students on Jan. 11. Wirdzek’s visit was part of a culminating activity to wrap up the students’ science unit on weather.

SCHOOL ART CLUB Students from Berlin Intermediate School made bird feed strings and gingerbread people during a recent meeting of the school art club, an outreach program of the Art League of Ocean City led by art teacher Joanne Guilfoil. (Far Left) Kiley Mikulski and Nola Gisriel hold up bird feed strings they created. (Left) Mitchell Leisure pauses for a photo while making a gingerbread house.

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SUBMITTED PHOTOS/ OCEAN CITY TODAY

EDUCATOR EXCELLANCE AWARD Ocean City Elementary School music teacher Anne Binkley, right, the recipient of the 2024 Maryland Music Educators Association’s Award of Excellence, poses recently with her award and Assistant Principal Jane Chisholm.

Binkley earned the outstanding educator designation, which honors music educators for outstanding service to students in public, private and independent schools in Maryland. She will be honored at a presentation during the association’s annual state conference on Feb. 24 in Baltimore. Binkley also recently earned her doctorate in music education from Liberty University.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OCEAN CITY TODAY

DREAMFEST YOUTH ART Berlin Intermediate School sixth grader Jeff Ritchie poses with his entry in the Dreamfest youth art show held at the Ocean City Center for the Arts. The Art League of Ocean City hosted Dreamfest weekend earlier this month to celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OCEAN CITY TODAY

PAGE 26

Ocean City Today

JANUARY 26, 2024

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Cheesesteak eggrolls great for Super Bowl

By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) Mastering the art of cookery is far more challenging than just following a recipe. A direct and immediate access to reality focuses on current truth and does not incorporate the possibility of insight.

A chef is a teacher and therefore subliminal foresight is a consequence of daily endeavors. And it is this ability to constitute perception that yields a manifestation of virtuosity and successful merriment.

That being said, creativity should not be confused with intelligence. Inspiration generates alternative approaches and is crucial for achievement.

Mastery of the smallest details borders insanity, but it is this relentless intensity that creates works of art. And with that thought in mind,

cheesesteak egg rolls are the subject of the day.

The Super Bowl is in the near future and the menu must match the festivities. The finale of the football season deserves nothing less than fabulous food. A “wow” celebration can be based on simplicity taken to the fullest degree.

Originality is an analogous route of distinctiveness, and it is this uniqueness that generates excitement. Dips, tacos, and pizza are popular choices for the famed game. But in the end, individualism dictates success.

Disposition of the mind creates habit and the choice of actions is relative to the principle of purpose.

Steak, provolone cheese, onions, peppers, jalapeños, and mushrooms are sinfully delicious.

However, this particular grouping creates a tricky situation. Natural juices will nullify the crispy exterior, which in turn deconstructs the philosophy of contrast. Strain the meat

and vegetable mixture in a fine mesh sieve to remove any excess moisture.

The function of reason is to exercise forethought for your festivities.

Appetite is not always the dominating factor; passion and objectivity rule the direction of a dish.

Finger-friendly food should always be a consideration when entertaining at home. Easy to handle snacks diminish the perils of adult beverages.

Egg rolls need a dipping sauce.

Cheesesteak egg rolls accompanied

with a creamy horseradish sauce completes this dish of goodness. The mixing of mayonnaise and prepared horseradish to taste is as easy as it gets.

Entertaining is predicated on great food and pleasant surprises. Comfort food with a twist equates good times for all. Cheesesteak egg rolls with a creamy horseradish sauce are sure to be a hit, no matter the occasion.

Enjoy!

See RECIPE Page 28

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PAGE 27

Ocean City Today

NOW PLAYING

DUST N BONES Coins Pub: Sat., Jan. 27, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

CAPTAIN’S TABLE 15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, Located in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City, 410-289-7192 / Captainstableoc.com Every Friday & Saturday: Phil Perdue, 5-9 p.m.

COINS PUB 28th Street Plaza, Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100 / coinspuboc.com Sat., Jan. 27: Sing-A-Long w/DJ Giddy Up, 4-6:30 p.m.; Dust N Bones, 7:30 p.m.

Sun., Jan. 28: Bingo, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

PAPI’S TACO JOINT 1500 Coastal Highway, Ocean City 443-664-8611 / papistacojoint.com Fri., Jan 26: Endless Embers, 7-10 p.m.

Sat., Jan 27: First Class Duo, 7-10 p.m.

PICKLES PUB 706 Philadelphia Ave., Ocean City, 410-289-4891 / picklesoc.com

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

The original 1970s poster for the movie “Hairspray,” which was filmed in Baltimore.

Waters to show ‘Hairspray’ at Ocean City Film Festival (Jan. 26, 2024) Baltimore filmmaker John Waters will return in March to Ocean City for the Art League of Ocean City’s annual film festival.

Set March 7-10, the eighth installment of the festival will feature the screening of 100 independent films from around the world. Waters will

also give a live performance at 8 p.m., March 9, at the Ocean City Performing Arts Center as part of the event.

Waters performed to a sold-out audience in 2023 with a stand-up show at Ocean Downs Casino. This year, he will present his movie “Hairspray” and provide commentary durSee ART Page 29

Fri., Jan. 26: Beats by Deojee, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Sat., Jan. 27: TBD, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Sun., Jan. 28: Beats by Styler, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Mon., Jan. 29: Karaoke w/Wood, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Tues., Jan. 30: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Wed., Jan. 31: Beats by Styler, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Thurs., Feb. 1: Beats by Wax, 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

SEACRETS 117 49th St., Ocean City 410-524-4900 / seacrets.com Closed - Re-open Feb. 1 VISTA ROOFTOP RESTAURANT Located on the 8th Floor of the Fenwick Inn, 13801 Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-390-7905 / vistarooftopoc.com Fri., Jan. 26: Steve Kuhn, 4-7 p.m.

Sat., Jan. 27: George & Dave, 4-7 p.m.

Mon., Jan. 29: Mike & Dave, 4-7 p.m.

Tues., Jan. 30: Steve Kuhn w/Special Guest, 4-7 p.m.

Wed., Jan. 31: Taylor Knox & Brian Thomas, 4-7 p.m.

Thurs., Feb. 1: Michael Sky, 4-7 p.m.

Ocean City Today

PAGE 28

JANUARY 26, 2024

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Recipe includes, steak, provolone, veggies Continued from Page 26

Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Ingredients 1 cup mayonnaise prepared horseradish to taste canola oil for frying 4 eggs 3 tablespoons water 4 tablespoons olive oil 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced 1 medium red, orange, and yellow bell pepper, seeded and thinly sliced 3 large jalapeños, seeded and thinly sliced 1 ½ cups favorite mushrooms, thinly sliced 1 rounded teaspoon garlic powder kosher salt to taste

1-pound shavings of rib eye or SteakUmm 16 ounces provolone cheese, shredded 12 egg roll wraps 3 cups unseasoned panko bread crumbs 1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and prepared horseradish to taste. Place in a serving bowl and refrigerate until ready to use.

2. In a large sauté pan, heat 2 teaspoons olive oil to medium-high heat.

Sauté veggies and season with salt and garlic powder. Remove veggies and place on a plate.

3. Wipe pan clean with paper towels and sauté beef in remaining 2 teaspoons of olive. Again, season with

Dining Guide ■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$ ■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted —————————————

DOWNTOWN

South end to 28th Street ■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE 15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, in The Courtyard by Marriott, Ocean City, 410-289-7192, captainstableoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar A local tradition for over 60 years featuring hand cut steaks, premium lobster and perfectly prepared regional seafood.

Breakfast: closed Monday through Wednesday; Thursday through Saturday, 7:30-11 a.m.; Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to noon. Open daily for Dinner: Sunday through Thursday, 4-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4-10 p.m. Happy Hour, seven days a week, 4-6 p.m.

■ COINS PUB & RESTAURANT 28th Street Plaza and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 410-289-3100, www.coinspuboc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar American style local restaurant serving seafood, steaks and chefs specials.

Check out the off season weekday specials. Early bird; daily, 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, Papistaco-

joint.com $$ | Kid’s menu | Full bar Authentic Mexican restaurant open 7 days a week. Weekdays, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and weekends 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

With a family atmosphere you can enjoy building your own street tacos with a sheet table side with their home-made authentic salsa. Serving food such as little cravings, choice of salsas, salads, bowls, soups, main dishes and desserts. Also, brunch, gluten free and vegan menus. Happy Hour Monday through Friday, 3-5 p.m. with beer, wines, cocktails and specialty signature drinks. Dine in or order online for your carryout.

MIDTOWN 29th to 90th streets ■ 32 PALM 32nd Street in The Hilton, Ocean City 410-289-2525, 32palm.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Elevated cuisine, locally sourced ingredients and allocated spirits are prominently featured in our lounge and dining room. Open year-round for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Routinely updated menus with the highest quality local ingredients for fresh seafood any time of the year! Don’t miss out on Happy Hour, every day, 3-6 p.m.

■ 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

salt. Strain veggies and beef in a mesh strainer to remove excess liquid.

4. In a small bowl, whisk 1 egg to form an egg wash.

5. Lay the egg roll wrapper out like a diamond. The corner furthest from you is corner 1, corner 2 is to the left and corner 3 is to the right, and the corner closest to you is corner 4.

6. Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of a combination of veggies, meat, and cheese in the middle of the egg roll. Roll corner 4 over the mixture, make sure it is tight. Using your finger, spread a little of the egg wash on corners 2 and 3 and tuck those corners in. Then roll the egg roll towards corner 1 and seal with a little egg wash.

7. In a large cast-iron skillet, heat oil

to 375 degrees. Fill with enough oil so the egg rolls are covered.

8. Mix remaining eggs and water in a small bowl. Place panko bread crumbs on a plate. Gently roll the egg roll in the egg mixture, and then the panko bread crumbs.

9. Fry until both sides are golden brown. Do not overcrowd the pan with egg rolls, or the temperature of the oil will drop causing the egg rolls to be soggy. Repeat this process for the remaining egg rolls.

10. When egg rolls are cooked, place on a cooling rack for 1 minute, then serve immediately.

Secret Ingredient – Knowledge “Knowledge is power.”

— Francis Bacon

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 $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar CLOSED JAN. 21 AND REOPENING FEB. 1.

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.

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. menu.

UPTOWN

91st to 146th streets ■ 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.

■ 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

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.

JANUARY 26, 2024

HOROSCOPE ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, you may have an artistic talent that you haven’t explored yet. Events this week may spur you on to try something new because inspiration is high for you right now.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, your household may not agree on which remodeling changes to make.

Unless you come up with a compromise, nothing will get done at all.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 A miscommunication with a loved one could have you trying to make amends soon enough, Gemini. Don’t worry, you will easily resolve your differences in time.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you might be asked for assistance by a close friend having financial troubles. Be careful about lending out money at this juncture because you don’t want to cause issues for yourself.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 This week you may have a hard time integrating yourself into a group, Leo. Make a concerted effort to be supportive of others. This can be an effective way to get back into the group’s good graces.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Speaking with friends this week could help to address a number of things you’re wrestling with, Virgo. Don’t hesitate to lean on this support network.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, when you discover a mutual interest with someone you consider a friend, your bond may grow even deeper. Have fun spending time together.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, something important to you doesn’t seem to be moving along at the pace you had hoped it would. You might have to be a little more patient in this situation.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 General malaise may have you wondering if you are sick. It’s likely nothing more than stress and fatigue. Keep an eye on symptoms moving forward.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, a romantic encounter you have been counting on may not pan out this week, or it may be less exciting than you imagined. Wait a few days before reevaluating things.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Don’t put all of your trust in new information this week, Aquarius. It is likely unreliable, so take everything that is said with a grain of salt.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Your imagination is riding high this week, Pisces. Don’t hinder it in any way so you can explore all of the creativity that is flowing out of you right now.

PAGE 29

Ocean City Today

Art league event set March 7-10 Continued from Page 27 ing the screening, including sharing memories of making the film in Baltimore in the 1970s and discussing the true events that inspired the story.

General admission tickets are available, with a limited number of VIP passes for a meet and greet with Waters after the show available at a special price and on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The film festival is an annual production of the art league. It receives support from the Town of Ocean City, the State of Maryland Film Office, and the local community. The event is organized by Film Festival Director and Towson University alumnus B.L. Strang-Moya.

This year’s event will showcase independent films in multiple genres at Ocean City venues including Flagship Cinemas in West O.C., Morley Hall at Seacrets, Princess Royale Oceanfront, Ashore Resort Hotel, and the Performing Arts Center. This year’s festival features both local and international films, from places such as Canada, Portugal, Iran, Turkey, France and Germany.

Short films are packaged into showcases so viewers can attend their preferences. The showcases consist of Listening Experience; For Your Health; Chuckles, Chortles, Snickers & Snorts; Environmental & Aquatic; For the Love of Film; Horror, Sci-Fi & the Weird; It’s Personal; Old Line Cinema, and Pride. Also, Tire Tales, Spotlight on Fatherhood, Storytelling Ability, Strife Stories, Surf’s Up, and The Media & Me. The festival will also screen nine feature-length films, including “American Meltdown” that won best feature at the Chattanooga Film Festival, and “Get on the Bus,” a documentary about the James Taylor Justice Coalition’s second Justice

SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Baltimore filmmaker John Waters, pictured, will be in Ocean City in March for a presentation of “Hairspray” and meet-and-greet during the art league’s annual film festival.

Day event in Chestertown.

Information about the festival is available at OCMDFilmFestival.com or by calling 410-524-9433.

Passes are available for one day of

films and parties, four days of films and parties, and individual Waters tickets.

Also listed on the film fest website are special, off-season hotel rates for festival goers, with oceanfront resort rooms starting at $99 per night.

The films have not been rated, and some feature adult content. Viewer discretion is advised.

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Grant to help nonprofit give support to suicide grievers (Jan. 26, 2024) The Jesse Klump Memorial Fund was recently awarded a grant to launch a Local Outreach to Suicide Survivors, or LOSS, Team to cover the lower Eastern Shore.

An extension of the nonprofit’s monthly support group for those left behind after a suicide, the team will enable outreach to more local individuals struggling with grief following a suicide.

The Jesse Klump Memorial Fund, based in Bishopville, was created in 2009 following the loss of Snow Hill High School senior Jesse Klump to suicide. In 2011, the nonprofit launched a suicide prevention program, which began with a group for grievers of suicide loss. According to a news release, more than 100 people have benefitted from the first post-suicide grievers’ support group — the only one on the Eastern Shore — since its creation.

Now, thanks in large part to the grant from Everytown for Gun Safety, the organization’s support will reach more families experiencing grief after suicide with the creation of the LOSS team.

The team will be made up of stakeholders consisting of first responders, hospital personnel, crisis responders, mental health therapists and counselors, and volunteers, some of whom have lost loved ones to suicide. The team assists with the immediate aftermath of the loss, making sure sur-

vivors find the resources they need to get help, and planting the seeds of hope. Often just saying, “I lost someone to suicide too,” dispels the stigma surrounding suicide and opens the door to accepting compassionate care, the release said.

Local LOSS team members will be trained to reach out to grievers shortly after the loss, help in any way that they can, and stay in touch – through visits, phone, text, emails, etc.

“Just knowing someone else has been there and managed to find peace is a huge help,” Kim Klump, the fund founder and president, said in the release.

Members of the Jesse Klump Suicide Awareness & Prevention Program also attends community events, works within school systems, first responders’ groups, and faith assemblies.

“We teach ‘suicide prevention first aid,’ similar to CPR. You don’t have to be a cardiologist to keep someone alive until the ambulance arrives. You don’t have to be a psychiatrist to keep someone safe until a professional can intervene,” Jennifer LaMade, program executive director, said in the release.

To bring the Jesse Klump Suicide Awareness & Prevention Program to a group or event, contact the members through jessespaddle.org or call 667-227-9247.

Coastal Hospice announces lung disease care program (Jan. 26, 2024) Coastal Hospice, in collaboration with the American Lung Association and National Partnership for Healthcare and Hospice Innovation, have announced the Advanced Lung Care Program to improve care quality and access to hospice and palliative/advanced illness care.

The program will provide specialized care for patients experiencing severe symptoms from chronic lung disease, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD; chronic bronchitis; emphysema; asthma; cystic fibrosis; bronchiectasis; pulmonary fibrosis; sarcoidosis; and pulmonary hypertension.

According to a news release, chronic lung disease is a tremendous burden for the 34 million Americans who live with the disease as well as their families and caregivers. In 2016, there were more than two million emergency department visits and more than 650,000 hospitalizations due to COPD, which is one of the

JANUARY 26, 2024

Ocean City Today

most prevalent chronic lung diseases.

COPD also costs the healthcare system more than $50 billion a year – mostly due to ER visits and hospitalizations.

“Coastal Hospice designed our local program to help patients who are tired of being in and out of hospital emergency departments for their chronic lung disease,” Dr. Stacy Cottingham, the special programs access liaison RN and head of the Coastal Hospice Advanced Lung Care Program, said in the release. “By wrapping the patient and caregiver with education and other health resources, we can give them the peace of mind that they don’t have to leave home but have a specialized team come to them to help manage symptoms.”

The Advanced Lung Care Program launched Jan. 22. Copies of the Patient and Caregiver Handbook can be downloaded online. Individuals can also request printed copies by calling 410-742-7878 or asking providers about contacting Coastal Hospice.

Your Online Community: www.oceancitytoday.com

Calendar Submit calendar items to: editor@oceancitytoday.net.

Submission deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, the week of publication. Local submissions have priority. Area event listings are subject to space availability.

Fri., Jan 26 ‘A TRIBUTE TO HARRIET TUBMAN’ Wor-Wic Community College, Guerrieri Hall, 32000 Campus Drive, Salisbury, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free historical talk and poetry reading in honor of Harriet Tubman. www.worwic.edu under “Events.”

HOMESCHOOL CREATIVE WRITING FOR TEENS Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 10:30 a.m. Helps students with vocabulary, imaginative thinking, literary knowledge and social enrichment. Geared for upper elementary to middle school, but all are welcome. 410-632-3495

MAHJONG CLUB Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Join in for a fun morning of playing tile Mahjong. Feel free to bring your own tile set. All are welcome. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

KIDS FUN FILLED FRIDAYS Ocean Pines Community Center, 235 Ocean Parkway, 6-7:30 p.m. Held Fridays from Jan. 26 to Feb. 23. Kids ages 8-10 years will play new games and old classics. Parent drop off event. Cost is $20 for residents and $25 for non-residents. Registration: 410-641-7052.

BINGO FOR BABIES Knights of Columbus, 9901 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, 6:30 p.m. All profits go to “BINGO For Babies” for the Grace Center. Play every game for a base price of $25. Cash prizes awarded. Jackpot game is worth $1,000. Doors open at 5 p.m. Refreshments available.

Sat., Jan. 27 ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET

Ocean Pines Racquet Center, 11443 Manklin Creek Road, 9:30 a.m. Every Saturday through January. For new players to meet and play with veteran players and director. Tim Johnson, 410641-7228

CRAFTY SATURDAY: SWEET TREATS Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10 a.m.

Make some crafts and satisfy your sweet tooth. For all ages. 410-208-4014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

VETERANS UPWARD BOUND PROGRAM Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 11 a.m. Assists veterans by preparing them for success in college, bringing them up to speed on critical Math and English skills. Assistance with college admission, financing and more. 410-957-0878

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., Jan. 28 ANNUAL WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATION St. Paul United Methodist Church, 405 Flower St., Berlin, 10 a.m. A very spiritfilled commemorative service featuring a moving speaker, local choirs ad liturgical dancing. All are welcome. 410-6410270

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

Mon., Jan. 29

Whaleysville United Methodist, 11716 Sheppards Crossing Road, 7-10 a.m.

Buffet includes pancakes, bacon, sausage, scrapple, scrambled eggs, chipped beef, hash brown potatoes, toast, fruit and assorted beverages. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children.

STORY TIME: ‘SHAPES’

CREATIVE KIDS CRAFT TIME

T.O.P.S. OF BERLIN - GROUP #169

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 9 a.m.4 p.m. Stop by to get crafty and create an arctic animal. For all ages. 410-5241818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

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

OP PLATFORM SEASON OPEN PLAY

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Learn about shapes through stories, songs and games. For ages 2-5 years. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

JANUARY 26, 2024

PAGE 31

Ocean City Today

CALENDAR THE FUNNY THING ABOUT CAREGIVERS

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 5:30 p.m. Comedian and health care professional Lon Kieffer will talk about the caregiver experience though comedy and conversation. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

Heroes-OC” for weekly meeting locations. All are welcome.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES MEETING

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

Held via Zoom, 6:30 p.m. Of Pagan and then Christian origin, Candlemas marks the return of the light, initiations and the midpoint between winter and spring.

443-783-6164, www.worcesterlibrary.org

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY

KIWANIS CLUB MEETING

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.

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

OVEREATER’S ANONYMOUS

OC KNITTING CLUB

DELMARVA WOMEN’S A CAPELLA CHORUS

Mondays - Worcester County Library Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 7-8 p.m. No dues or fees. 410-459-9100

Tues., Jan. 30 MUSIC AND MOVEMENT

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

Singing, moving and rhythmic instruments. For ages 2-5 years. 410-9570878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

FREE PLAY DAY AND CRAFTS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 10:30 a.m.

Make some new friends with play and improve language and motor skill development. For ages 2-5 years. 410-6410650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

OC KNITTING GROUP

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Do you love to knit or crochet?

Bring whatever project you happen to be working on. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

PICKLE BALL INDOORS

Ocean Pines Community Center Gym, 235 Ocean Parkway, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Held every Tuesday for six weeks beginning Jan. 30. Cost is $30 per person For newbies only. Register: stop by the community center or call 410-641-7052. Info: Tim Johnson, 410-641-7228.

CAREER RESOURCES AT THE LIBRARY

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 2 p.m.

Learn about free library resources in this class. Spruce up a resume, learn computer skills and general professional development. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

VALENTINE’S DAY LAVA LAMPS

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 4 p.m. Get ready for Valentine’s Day by making a groovy lava lamp in a jar. For ages 6-12 years. 410-641-0650, 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

THE ORIGINS OF CANDLEMAS

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

ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE

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

ZUMBA TONING TUESDAYS

Tuesdays - Northside Park, 200 125th St., Ocean City, 5:30 p.m. Zumba with optional light weights. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

Wed., Jan. 31 TEEN MARIO PARTY

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 1 p.m.

Teens and their families are invited to compete in Mario games on the Nintendo Switch. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

SCHOOL’S OUT SWITCH SESSION

Worcester County Library - Snow Hill Branch, 307 N. Washington St., 2 p.m.

Come play some Nintendo Switch games on the big screen and hang out with other kids and tweens. 410-632-3495, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CARD MAKING & EXCHANGE (2 PART PROGRAM)

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Held Jan 31 and Feb. 7. Learn about design and methods of stamping. Create cards and exchange while enjoying light refreshments. Registration is necessary: 410957-0878. www.worcesterlibrary.org

MEMOIR WRITING

Worcester County Library - Berlin Branch, 13 Harrison Ave., 2 p.m. Gail Samis, retired literature and writing professor, teaches how to write your story. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

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

BLIND DATE WITH A BOOK

Pocomoke library, 301 Market St., during February. Choose a mystery date from the display to take home and read.

Fill out the brief form inside the book and return it to the library to be entered into a drawing to win a sweet prize. 410957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

TEEN STEAM STATION

ZUMBA WEDNESDAYS

Berlin library, 13 Harrison Ave., during February. Each hands-on activity will focus on art, math, science, engineering or technology. Create jewelry using binary code, construct a flying glider, design. your own city out of recycled material and more. Challenges will change each week. For ages 11 years and older. 410-641-0650, www.worcesterlibrary.org

Thurs., Feb. 1

THANK A VETERAN WITH A VALENTINE CARD

Wednesdays - Ocean City 50plus Center, 104 41st St., 10 a.m. Dance background not required. zumbajoyceoc@gmail.com

STORY TIME ‘STACK THE CATS’

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

STORY TIME: ‘IF YOU GIVE A MOOSE A MUFFIN’

Worcester County Library - Ocean Pines Branch, 11107 Cathell Road, 10:30 a.m.

Join in for another classic by Laura Numeroff. For ages 2-5 years. 410-2084014, www.worcesterlibrary.org

CHESS CLUB

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 10:30 a.m. Looking for a quiet place to meet new friends and play some chess? Bring your boards and join the game. All are welcome. 410-524-1818, www.worcesterlibrary.org

BOOK DISCUSSION: ‘THE WATER DANCER’

BY TA-NEHISI COATES

Worcester County Library - Pocomoke Branch, 301 Market St., 2 p.m. Copies of the book are available at the Pocomoke Library circulation desk. 410-957-0878, www.worcesterlibrary.org

ZUMBA

Worcester County Library - Ocean City Branch, 10003 Coastal Highway, 5-6 p.m. Join Zumba instructor Joyce Landsman for an hour of movement.

These classes uplift and improve mood.

Registration required: 410-524-1818. www.worcesterlibrary.org

VIRTUAL POETRY READING

Free virtual poetry reading by Jaswinder Bolina, 7-8 p.m. www.worwic.edu under “Events.”

DINING FOR A CAUSE

Pancho & Lefty’s, 12911 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, 5-9 p.m. Featuring 50/50 raffles, huge gift basket raffle and great food and drink specials. Support Assateague Coastal Trust and foster a local business’ growth and success.

ONGOING EVENTS

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.

Cards and candy will be delivered by Copy Central staff. Please address cards to: “A Veteran.” Homemade cards are appreciated. No postage necessary. No youth cards. Drop off locations in Ocean Pines: Shamrock Realty Group, Copy Central, Ocean Pines Library and Ocean Pines Community Center. Deadlines is Feb. 2. Sponsored by Caring for America.

2024 JUST WALK CHALLENGE

Get the most miles of physical activity between Jan. 1 to Dec. 31 and be crowned the Just Walk Worcester Champion of 2024. Sign-up for Just Walk Worcester and report your monthly miles: https://justwalkworcester.org/. 410-632-1100, Ext. 1110

TEEN STEAM STATION

Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Avenue, during January. Drop in to create jewelry using binary code, construct a flying glider, design your own city out of recycled material and much more. Challenges will change each week. For ages 11 years and older. 410-641-0650

TINY ART CONTEST (BLUE THEME)

Through January and held at all Worcester County library branches. Pick up a Take & Make Kit from Jan. 2-13.

Submit your creation by Jan. 16 for judging. The first place winner from each branch will win an art kit. For ages 6-12 years and 12-18 years.

Crossword answers from page 26

32

Ocean City Today

January 26, 2024 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

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

HELP WANTED

RENTALS

RENTALS

COMMERCIAL

Summer Beach Condos PT/YR Daytime Custodial/ Maintenance Position $14-$15/hour 20-25 hours per week Call 410-603-5627 for more details.

Efficiency/1 Bath Condo with full kitchen available for either summer season for $10,000 or 8 month lease for $1250 per month.

Accommodates 2.

32nd Street, Bayside.

Resort Rentals, 410-524-0295

WOC - YR Rental - 5BR, 3.5BA, 3600 sq.ft. on pond. $2950/month and one months security plus utilities. Contact Lou, 410-713-0065.

Industrial Warehouse.

Space: 1500 sq. ft.

Masonry construction, 18’ high ceiling, large garage door, bathroom.

Route 90/Bishopville.

Call 443-497-4200.

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

Pool General Maintenance.

Outdoor work, lifting heavy objects. Mechanical, basic pool pump & motors, CPO a plus / not required.

Able to pass CPO test.

Summer includes weekends & long hours; working alone or with others 410-289-4902 ask for Suzanne.

Smal Engine Mechanic Year-round.

Competitive Wages.

443-754-1047

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

Classifieds 410-723-6397

Seeking To Rent. Long term, year-round, unfurnished, 2BR/ 2BA, ground floor. Ocean City/Ocean Pines area. Great references. 410-726-0169

www.baysideoc.com www.oceancitytoday.com ~~~~~ Classifieds Deadline is 5pm Monday

HERKER PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

OFF SEASON RENTALS Utililites Included CONTACT US AT burgundyinn@gmail.com 410-289-8581

An Innovative Approach to Property Maintenance

WE OFFER: Full-Time, Monday - Friday, competitive pay, great benefits, paid holidays and vacation.

- SENIOR OPERATIONS MANAGER -

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Customer Service, MS Word, Excel, & Outlook, and marketing skills. Bi-lingual & strong math skills are a plus.

- EXPERIENCED MECHANIC -

to repair to maintain gas & diesel trucks and landscaping equipment.

call 610-459-5857 or email resume to Gherker@comcast.net & Gherker@herkerinc.com

Yearly & Seasonal Rentals We Welcome Pets 7700 Coastal Hwy 410-524-7700 www.holidayoc.com

ROOMMATES ROOMMATES

COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL 1 Office/Retail Space available in West Ocean City. Approximately 1656 sq. ft.

Call 443-497-4200

Advertise in MDDC 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

Commercial Warehouses 600 and 800 sq. ft. spaces West Ocean City and Bishopville, MD Yearly Leases Only

Call 646-812-1212

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

AUCTIONS The contents of mini storage units will be sold online at Lockerfox.com.

Ocean City Mini Storage.

Units to be auctioned: B28B42-B89-O27-O51-O56O151-O175-O165-O164S6-S32-S35-S188-S189S747-S785-S211. Units are being sold due to non-payment of rent. Common items in units are household items, furniture, tools, fishing equipment, paintings, antique and vintage items.

Date: Friday, January 26th, 2024 Time: 10:00 am This will be an online auction. Please go to Lockerfox.com and register.

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

SERVICES

BUDGET MOVERS 443-664-5797 LOCAL & EAST COAST MOVING Full Packing Service Piano Movers - Full Service www.facebook.com/OCBudgetMovers

www.baysideoc.com www.oceancitytoday.com

CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK

It’s not too late to advertise your winter rentals.

GET IT RENTED HERE! 410-723-6397 www.oceancitytoday.net www.baysideoc.com

Serving the Newspapers of Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia since 1908.

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

www.oceancitytoday.com Order YOur Classifieds Online!

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

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

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 VEHICLES WANTED Information Kit with all the deDONATE YOUR CAR/TRUCK/ tails! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus.com/ RV - Lutheran Mission Society MDDC#6258 of MD Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044.

410-228-8437 www.CompassionPlace.org

Advertise in MDDC 410-723-6397

• Convenient • Quick • No Waiting, No Calls • Days, Nights & Weekends

JANUARY 26, 2024

PAGE 33

Ocean City Today

DIRECTORY BLINDS & SHADES

CONSTRUCTION

ELECTRICIAN

Raym Raymond mond O’Brocki O O’B Jr. M Master Electrician

443 691 0544 0 Call or Text Electric Veh hicle Chargers

35 Years Exp perience No Job Too Small! Frree Estimates!

Residential/Commercia al/Emergencies!

MD Lic #2268 Worcestter Co Lic #M1337 HANDYMAN

PA R R I S H THE

HANDY BEACHMAN Exterior Home Repairs “WE DO IT ALL”

• Roofing Repairs • Rain Gutters • Roof Cleaning • Gutter Guards

• Screening • Painting

HOME IMPROVEMENT

PipeLine

Contracting, LLC

“One stop shop for Home Improvement”

Home Improvement Services Company Home Improvement Design & Bertch Cabinet Retail

• Staining • Caulking

• Gutter Cleaning & Powerwashing •

• Cabinets & Countertop • Kitchen & Bath Remodeling • General Carpentry & Painting

• Flooring & Tile • Residential & Commercial • Servicing Maryland & Delaware Beaches

US Veterans Administration Approved Contractor

• Deck Repairs •

11312 Manklin Creek, Rd., Ocean Pines, MD ~ Call or Stop in Today!

Licensed • Bonded • Insured • MHIC 17433

(410) 208-1518 • (410) 982-8368 pipelinecontracting.net • info@pipelinecontracting.net

“A Family Tradition Since 1935”

HOME IMPROVEMENT AN AFFORDABLE NEW BATH STARTS HERE!

Making Your Dream Bath Come True For 20 Years!

Specializing in Bathroom Remodels Tub to Shower Conversions Custom Tile Work Contact Garth for FREE Estimate! atminc4u@aol.com 410-641-8439

MHIC #94614 Licensed Insured

410-893-9707

MDHIC # 107489 • DE # 2014100304 • Insured & Licensed

HOME IMPROVEMENT

MOVING SERVICES

MVA LICENSED

BUDGET MOVERS

NEW TITLE AND TAGS AND MORE

BAYSIDE BUILDERS COMPLETE HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR LICENSED AND FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES ALL WORK DONE BY OWNER

• Flat Roof Specialist • • Roofing • Siding • Windows • Doors • Custom Homes • Additions • Repairs • Kitchens • Baths • Tile Work • Decks • Custom Inside Trim Work • Hardwood Floors

LOCAL • ENTIRE EAST COAST Residential or Office or Commercial Packing or Loading or Unloading or Complete Move Single Item or Certain Items or Full Home

Call Maria: 443-664-5797

TRADER LEE’S VILLAGE 9935 STEPHEN DECATUR HIGHWAY #15 Open Mon., Fri., 9-2 & Wed. 9-5

JODY PALMISANO 410-629-5600

Licensed & Insured

PAINTING

Zimmerman & Son LLC

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 ad!

• Roofs • & More all ser v w/this

Free Estimates

10% Discount with this ad.

VEHICLE TAG & TITLE

Female Owned & Operated

40+ Years in Business

PAINTING • CUSTOM PAINTING • DRYWALL REPAIRS • WALLPAPER REMOVED • DECK & HOUSE STAINING Painting & Powerwashing • ALWAYS PROMPT SERVICE Interior & Exterior Licensed & Insured

WEST OCEAN CITY

www.Facebook.com/ocbudgetmovers

Cell: 410-713-8599

Serving Delmarva for Over 35 Years

www.westoceancitytagandtitle.com

The Area’s #1 Moving Company

NOW ACCEPTING CREDIT CARDS!

410-603-3400

Joe Beran/Owner Operator acms1st@gmail.com

Bill Zimmerman cell 443-373-4539

REAL ESTATE

Kim Dixson REDFIN AGENT

Sell for more, pay a 1% listing fee when you buy and sell with Redfin Agents.*

ROOFING

MHIC 97081 Ocean City 34629 • Delaware 2004 222 381 Licensed & Insured

ROOFING

REDFIN 190 W. Ostend St., #200 Baltimore, MD 21230 Redfin - Direct 410-868-5666 redfin.com

443-373-1328 kim.dixson@ redfin.com License #650977

Contact Kim for a no-obligation home-value consultation. *Sell for more based on difference between the sale and list prices of Redfin listings versus those of comparable listings by other brokerages, per a 2019 study. Sell for a 1% listing fee only if you also buy with Redfin within 365 days of closing on your Redfin listing. If you sell first we will initially charge a 1.5% listing fee and then send you a check for the .5% difference after you buy your next home with Redfin. Subject to $3,750 minimum Redfin commission.

Listing commission subject to change. Buyer’s agent commission not included. More info at redfin.com/disclaimer.

Information provided is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. If you are currently working with an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business.

Your Roofing, Siding & Home Improvement Specialist Since 1989 ROOFING • SIDING • DURADEK • WINDOWS • GUTTERS

Mike Moesle 410-629-1573, Fax: 410-629-1946 mmoesle@shoresidingmd.com www.shoresidingmd.com

*Licensed in MD, DE &VA

PAGE 34 Venable LLP 750 E. Pratt Street, Suite 900 Baltimore, Maryland 21202

MORTGAGEE’S SALE

OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON MINI-STORAGE WAREHOUSE AND RETAIL STORE 12102/12104 OCEAN GATEWAY OCEAN CITY, MD 21842 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Purchase Money Mortgage from RLD Rental Properties, Ltd., a Maryland corporation dated September 29, 2020, recorded in Book 7814, page 358 in the original principal amount of $750,000 among the Land Records of Worcester County (Case No. C-23CV-23-000274), default as defined in said Mortgage having occurred, and at the request of the party secured thereby, the undersigned Attorneys for the Mortgagee by Deed of Appointment of Attorney to Exercise Power of Sale dated October 20, 2023 (Attorneys for the Mortgagee) will sell at public auction at the steps of the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland, One W. Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on: FEBRUARY 13, 2024 AT 4:05 PM All that fee simple lot of ground and improvements thereon situated in the County of Worcester; State of Maryland, as more particularly described in the Deed dated September 29, 2020, recorded among the Land Records in Book 7814, Page 354 to secure the loan made by T.T.G., LLC, a Maryland limited liability company.

ALL that lot or parcel of land lying and being situate in the Tenth Election District of Worcester County, Maryland, fronting one hundred ten (110) feet, more or less, on the south side of Berlin - Ocean Gateway, now known as U.S. Route 50, containing 2.77 acres of land, more or less.

SUBJECT, HOWEVER, to the following exceptions: 1. All matters and facts set forth on a Plat entitled, "Location Drawing Lands of Harry V. Ashe, Jr. & Cynthia A. Ashe", recorded in the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, in Plat Book 205, Folio 67.

2. Right of Way Deed dated July 25, 1949, from Elsie B. Harris, et ux., to the State Roads Commission of Maryland acting on the behalf of The State of Maryland recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Liber CWN No. 29, Folio 271.

Tax ID: 10-010365 Terms of Sale: A certified check or cashier's check for $50,000 will be required of the purchaser(s) at time and place of sale. The balance of the purchase price is to be paid in cash within ten (10) days following final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County. Time is of the essence for the purchaser(s) performance. If the purchaser(s) fails to go to settlement the deposit shall be forfeited to the Attorneys for the

Ocean City Today / Public Notices Mortgagee and all expenses of this sale (including attorney fees and full commission on the gross sales price of the sale) shall be charged against and paid from the forfeited deposit.

In the event of resale, the defaulting purchaser(s) shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds or profits resulting from any resale of the property regardless of any improvements made to the real property. Interest will be charged at the rate of 5% per annum or interest at the rate equal to the rate at which interest is then accruing on the mortgage on the unpaid purchase money from date of sale to the date funds are received by the Attorneys for the Mortgagee.

The Attorneys for the Mortgagee reserve the right to reject any and all bids. Taxes, water, sewer, ground rent, condominium fees, and/or homeowners association dues, if applicable, to be adjusted to the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. All other public charges and assessments payable on an annual basis, including sanitary and/or metropolitan district charges, are to be adjusted for the current year to date of sale and assumed thereafter by the purchaser.

The property will be sold in "AS IS" condition, and without any representations or warranties, either express or implied, with respect to the nature, value, use, description or condition of the property, equipment, fixtures or improvements. The property is also being sold subject to all existing housing, building and zoning code violations, critical area and wetland violations, environmental problems, conditions or hazards, which may exist on or with respect to the property and such state of facts that an accurate survey or physical inspection of the property might disclose. Purchaser(s) shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. If there are tenants in possession of all or part of the property, the Attorneys for the Mortgagee shall not be responsible for any tenant security deposit.

The property is being sold subject to easements, agreements, restrictions or covenants of record affecting same, if any, which are not extinguished as a matter of law by the foreclosure. If the Attorneys for the Mortgagee are unable to convey good and marketable title, the purchaser(s) sole remedy in law or equity shall be limited to the refund of the deposit to the purchaser(s). Upon refund of the deposit this sale shall be null and void and of no effect and the purchaser(s) shall have no further claim against the Attorneys for the Mortgagee. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, agricultural transfer taxes and settlement costs to be paid by the purchaser(s).

In the event settlement is delayed for any reason and the property is purchased by someone other than Note holder, there shall be no abatement of interest caused by the delay.

The purchaser(s) at the foreclosure sale shall assume the risk of loss for the property from the date of sale. The information contained herein was obtained from sources deemed to be reliable, but is offered for information purposes only. The

Auctioneer and the Attorneys for the Mortgagee herein appointed do not make any representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy of this information. The acreage is approximate.

Matthew T. Murnane Darek S. Bushnaq Attorneys for the Mortgagee

OCD-1/25/3t _________________________________ COHN, GOLDBERG & DEUTSCH, LLC 1099 WINTERSON ROAD, SUITE 301 LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MARYLAND 21090 www.cgd-law.com/sales

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES'

SALE OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY 12386 BACK CREEK ROAD BISHOPVILLE, MD 21813 By authority contained in a Deed of Trust dated May 22, 2006 and recorded in Liber 4712, Folio 695, , among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, with an original principal balance of $156,394.64, and an interest rate of 4.500%, default having occurred thereunder, the Substitute Trustees will sell at public auction at the Courthouse door for the Circuit Court for Worcester County, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, MD 21863, on February 5, 2024 AT 11:00AM ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE property more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling.

Terms of Sale: The property will be sold “as is” subject to any conditions, restrictions, easements and agreements of record affecting same with no warranty of any kind. A deposit of $14,000.00 by certified funds only (no cash accepted) required at time of auction. Balance of the purchase price to be paid within 10 days of ratification of sale by the Court, with interest at the note rate from date of sale to settlement. If settlement is delayed for ANY reason, there shall be no abatement of interest or taxes. All private utility, water and sewer facilities charges, front foot benefit payments, ground rent, or condo/HOA assessments, not otherwise divested by ratification of the sale are payable by purchaser without adjustment. Real estate taxes and all other public charges, or assessments, to be adjusted as of date of sale. Transfer and recordation taxes, and all other costs incident to settlement, shall be borne by purchaser. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. If purchaser fails to go to settlement within ten days of ratification, or

JANUARY 26, 2024 otherwise fails to comply with the terms of sale, the Trustee may declare the entire deposit forfeited and resell the property at the risk and expense of defaulting purchaser, who agrees to pay reasonable attorneys' fees and costs if a motion to resell the property has been filed, purchaser waives personal service of any paper filed in connection with such motion, and agrees to accept service of any such paper by regular mail to the address provided at time of sale. If the Trustee cannot convey insurable title, or the loan servicer determines that the sale should not have occurred, the sale shall be null and void, and purchaser's sole remedy shall be the return of deposit without interest.

Richard E. Solomon, et al., Sub. Trustees Tidewater Auctions, LLC (410) 825-2900 www.tidewaterauctions.com CGD File #: 459034 OCD-1/18/3t _________________________________ McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC 312 Marshall Avenue, Suite 800 Laurel, MD 20707 www.mwc-law.com

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES’ SALE

OF IMPROVED REAL PROPERTY 1645 ST. LUKES RD. SALISBURY, MD 21804 Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust from David W. Pfeffer, dated November 10, 2004 and recorded in Liber 4726, folio 433 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, default having occurred under the terms thereof and at the request of the parties secured thereby, the undersigned Substitute Trustees will offer for sale at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on FEBRUARY 6, 2024 AT 3:35 PM ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND AND THE IMPROVEMENTS THEREON situated in Worcester County, Maryland and more fully described in the aforesaid Deed of Trust. The property is improved by a dwelling.

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

Terms of Sale: A deposit in the form of cashier's or certified check, or in such other form as the Substitute Trustees may determine, at their sole discretion, for $5,000 at the time of sale. If the noteholder and/or servicer is the successful bidder, the deposit requirement is waived.

Balance of the purchase price is to be paid within ten (10) days of the final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, Maryland. Interest is to be paid on the unpaid purchase price at the rate of

JANUARY 26, 2024 5% per annum from date of sale to the date the funds are received in the office of the Substitute Trustees, if the property is purchased by an entity other than the noteholder and/or servicer. If payment of the balance does not occur within ten (10) days of ratification, the deposit will be forfeited as liquidated damages. The purchaser agrees that the property may be resold pursuant to an order of court, waives personal service upon themselves and/or any principal or corporate designee of any documents filed regarding the failure to pay the purchase price within ten (10) days of ratification and expressly agrees to accept service by first class mail of said documents at the address provided by the purchaser in the Memorandum of Sale. The purchaser will not be entitled to any surplus or profits arising from the resale even if they are the result of improvements made by the purchaser. There will be no abatement of interest due from the purchaser in the event settlement is delayed for any reason. Taxes, ground rent, water rent, and all other public charges and assessments payable on an annual basis, including sanitary and/or metropolitan district charges, and front foot benefit charges, if applicable, to be adjusted for the current year to the date of sale, and assumed thereafter by the purchaser. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the purchaser from the date of sale. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes (including agricultural transfer taxes, if applicable), and all settlement charges shall be borne by the purchaser. The sale is subject to a post sale audit of the loan, including but not limited to an analysis of whether the borrower entered into a loan modification agreement, filed bankruptcy, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. The Substitute Trustees will convey either insurable or marketable title. If the Substitute Trustees are unable to convey insurable or marketable title or, the post sale audit concludes that the sale should not have occurred, or the sale is not ratified by the court for any reason, the purchaser’s sole remedy in law or equity shall be limited to the refund of the deposit without interest even if the purchaser has made improvements to the property. Upon refund of the deposit, the sale shall be void and of no effect, and the purchaser shall have no further claim against the Substitute Trustees. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property. The purchaser at the foreclosure sale shall assume the risk of loss for the property immediately after the sale. (Matter #23-600381).

Laura H. G. O'Sullivan, et al., Substitute Trustees

OCD-1/18/3t _________________________________

PAGE 35

Ocean City Today / Public Notices

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: 01/12/2024.

Line No 855-23 947-23 963-23 964-23 967-23 990-23 993-23 995-23 996-23 1000-23 1001-23 1002-23

Year 1974 2007 2007 1996 2008 2006 2007 1996 2005 1999 2015 2000

Make BMW VOLVO TOYOTA LEXUS YAMAHA CHRYSLER TOYOTA JEEP VOLVO LINCOLIN KIA NISSAN

Model 2S S60 SCION TC ES300 XV1700 TOWN & COUNTRY CAMRY GRAN CHEROKEE XC70 CONTINENTAL SOUL TERRA

Color GRN WHITE WHI SILVER RED TAN WHI GRN SIL GRY SILV BLU

Style 2S 4D 2D 4D MC VAN 4D 4D 4D 4D 4D SUV

VIN Mileage 4228577 N/A YV1RS592072615305 N/A JTKDE167870204495 N/A JT8BF12G0T0179831 N/A JYAVP19E28A005028 N/A 1A4GP45R96B577884 N/A 4T1BK46K57U536993 N/A 1J4GZ58S8TC300289 N/A YV1SZ592X51174010 N/A 1LNHM97V9XY646349 N/A KNDJN2A28F7808632 N/A 5N1ED28Y7YC524669 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-1/11/3t ________________________________________________________________________________________________________

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS To all persons interested in the estate of VANESSA JONES Estate No. 20020 Notice is given that COREY JONES whose address is 2203 IVERSON ST., TEMPLE HILLS, MD 20748-7008 was on JANUARY 08, 2024 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of VANESSA JONES who died on SEPTEMBER 07, 2023 without a will.

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

All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent's will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 8th day of JULY, 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 pre-

sented 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-1/18/3t _________________________________

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, February 8, 2024 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 23-107 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 24-004 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift with one associated piling maximum channelward extension of 15’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 11611 SEAWARD RD UNIT B Parcel # 3892A-71B in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Kevin Dobenecker APPLICANT: Just Rite Marine, Inc. PW 24-005 A request has been submitted to install 40’ of replacement vinyl bulkhead maximum 18” channelward; to replace existing parallel pier, perpendicular pier and to install two (2) boatlifts. All construction 36’ maximum channelward extension. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 713 HARBOUR DR Parcel # 8020A-1538B- in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

PAGE 36 OWNER: Karen Barger APPLICANT: Lane Engineering, LLC c/o Sarah Freund PW 24-006 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift on existing pilings, maximum channelward extension of 40’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 304 DOLPHIN ST Parcel # 3275 -119 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Eric & Dana Siegel APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc. PW 24-007 A request has been submitted to install one boat lift on existing pilings, maximum channelward extension 19’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 509 PENGUIN DR BLDG C 203 – Slip 102 C2 Parcel # 4469 -203 -C in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Jeffrey & Colleen Abell APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc. PW 24-008 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift with associated pilings a maximum channelward extension of 16’. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 11614 SHIPWRECK RD Parcel # 3919A-59 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Christopher Fontana APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc. PW 24-009 A request has been submitted to install one boatlift with associated poles a maximum of 18’ channelward not to extend past existing pier. The site of the proposed construction is described as being located at 2818 PLOVER DR UNIT 7 Parcel # 4717 -7 in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

OWNER: Jane & Darrell Ginter APPLICANT: J. Stacey Hart & Assoc., Inc. OCD-1/25/2t _________________________________

PROPOSAL SOLICITATION Riddle Farm Force Main Bypass Design

Worcester County is seeking proposals from qualified Vendors to contract for design and bidding phase services in the Riddle Farm Service Area for the Riddle Farm Force Main Bypass design project in conformity with the requirements contained herein Proposal Documents.

Proposal Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer, Nicholas Rice, at nrice@co.worcester.md.us or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids.

Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.

A pre-proposal meeting will be

Ocean City Today / Public Notices held on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at 10:00am at the Water and Wastewater Division Administrative Office, located at the Ocean Pines Wastewater Treatment Plant, 1000 Shore Lane, Berlin, Maryland 21811. The last day for questions will be noon on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than 2:30pm on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Envelopes shall be marked "Proposal Solicitation – Riddle Farm Force Main Bypass Design" in the lower left- hand corner.

Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted.

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

Nicholas W. Rice, CPPO, CPPB, NIGP-CPP Procurement Officer Worcester County, Maryland OCD-1/25/1t _________________________________

BID SOLICITATION Mystic Harbour Water Treatment Plant Backwash Pond Cleaning

Worcester County is seeking Bids from qualified Vendors for the Mystic Harbour Water Treatment Plant (WTP) Backwash Pond cleaning at 9624 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, MD 21811 in conformity with the requirements contained herein Bid Documents.

Bid Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing the Procurement Officer, Nicholas Rice, at nrice@co.worcester.md.us or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids.

Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Bid Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Bid Documents.

A pre-bid meeting will be held on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at 1:30 PM at the Mystic Harbour Site, located at 9624 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, MD. The last day for questions will be noon on Wednesday, February 7, 2024.

Sealed Bid Documents are due no later than 2:30pm on Thursday, February 15, 2024, and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Envelopes shall be marked "Bid Solicitation – Mystic Harbour Water Treatment Plant Backwash Pond Cleaning" in the lower left- hand corner.

Late Bid Documents will not be accepted.

Minority vendors are encouraged

to compete for award of the solicitation.

Nicholas W. Rice, CPPO, CPPB, NIGP-CPP Procurement Officer Worcester County, Maryland OCD-1/25/1t _________________________________

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, February 8, 2024 at 6:00 PM Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers of the Code, an appeal of Section 110-94(3)a has been filed to request a special yard exception for an addition to be constructed over an existing garage. The site of the appeal is described as Lot 10, Block 9, of the Caine Woods Section 5 Plat. It is further described as being located on the north side of 141st Street and is locally known as 720 141st Street, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland.

APPLICANT: KEITH HOLLANDER (BZA 2677 # 24-0940002) 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-1/25/2t _________________________________

PROPOSAL SOLICITATION

Mental Health Case Management: Care Coordination for Children and Youth Worcester County is seeking proposals from qualified Vendors to select a Mental Health Case Management (MHCM)/Care Coordination Organization (CCO) to assist youth in gaining access to needed medical, mental health, social, educational and other services in accordance with the Code of Maryland Annotated Regulations (COMAR) 10.09.89-90 in conformity with the requirements contained herein Proposal Documents.

Proposal Documents for the above referenced project may be obtained from the Worcester County Commissioner’s Office by either e-mailing

JANUARY 26, 2024 the Procurement Officer, Nicholas Rice, at nrice@co.worcester.md.us or by calling 410-632-1194 during normal business hours, or via the County’s Bids page on the County’s website. Vendors are responsible for checking this website for addenda prior to submitting their bids.

Worcester County is not responsible for the content of any Proposal Document received through any third party bid service. It is the sole responsibility of the vendor to ensure the completeness and accuracy of their Completed Proposal Documents.

A pre-proposal meeting will be held virtually via Google Meets on February 15, 2024, at 10:00am. The last day for questions will be seven days prior to the proposal opening.

Sealed Proposal Documents are due no later than 2:30pm on April 8, 2024, and will be opened and read aloud in the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center – Room 1103, One West Market Street, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863.

Envelopes shall be marked "Proposal Solicitation – Mental Health Case Management: Care Coordination for Children and Youth" in the lower left- hand corner.

Late Proposal Documents will not be accepted.

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

Nicholas W. Rice, CPPO, CPPB, NIGP-CPP Procurement Officer Worcester County, Maryland OCD-1/25/1t _________________________________ GINA D. SHAFFER, ESQ. 10514 RACETRACK ROAD, UNIT C BERLIN, MD 21811 SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20049 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF MERCEDES A. CALKINS Notice is given that Thomas C. Calkins, 67 Hatteras St., Berlin, MD 21811-3815, was on January 19, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Mercedes A. Calkins who died on January 22, 2022, with a will.

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

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

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

JANUARY 26, 2024

PAGE 37

Ocean City Today

of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Thomas C. Calkins Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: January 25, 2024 OCD-1/25/1t _________________________________ SMALL ESTATE

NOTICE NO TICE

OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 20045 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF PEGGY W. JONES Notice is given that Richard Glenn Jones, 10812 Adkins Rd., Berlin, MD 21811-3101, was on January 18, 2024 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Peggy W. Jones who died on September 03, 2023, without a will.

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

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

months after the date of publication of this Notice.

All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter.

Richard Glenn Jones Personal Representative True Test Copy Register of Wills for Worcester County Terri Westcott One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: January 25, 2024 OCD-1/25/1t _________________________________

Town own of Ocean Ocean City City

SPECIAL NOTICE NO TICE

The Department of Planning and Community Development which includes Building Permits, Inspections and Zoning will be closing Wednesda ednesday, January anuary 31st at 1 PM P for inter internal training training. We will be open at normal business hours on Thursday, February 1st.

OCEAN CITY TODAY Legal Advertising Call Taylor Sloan 410-723-6397, Fax: 410-723-6511 or E-mail: legals@oceancitytoday.net

Deeley Insurance Group Client Advisor Brooke Nugent, left, poses with Executive Vice President Cindy Hall.

SUBMITTED PHOTO/ OCEAN CITY TODAY

BUSINESS BRIEFS

New doctor Gastroenterologist Dr. Scott Itzkowitz will join Atlantic General Health System in February to provide care at Atlantic General Gastroenterology in Ocean Pines.

Itzkowitz practiced most recently in North Carolina, where he provided care in both the hospital and community setting after retiring as a captain in the Medical Corps from the United Scott Itzkowitz States Navy.

Itzkowitz graduated from Tulane University and received his medical education at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, completing an internship and residency in internal medicine at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego, California.

His three-year gastroenterology fellowship at the University of California, Los Angeles Center for Health Sciences was followed by an extensive military career, most notably with posts as chief of gastroenterology at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, medical director of healthcare operations at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, and gastroenterology department head at Naval Medical Center, Camp Lejeune.

Itzkowitz is board certified in gastroenterology and is a fellow of the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, a fellow of the American College of Gastroenterology, and a fellow of the American College of Physicians.

He is currently accepting new patients. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 410-629-1450.

Top client advisor Deeley Insurance Group recognized West Ocean City resident Brooke Nugent at a business meeting in January as the agency’s Top Client Advisor for the Month.

The distinction is awarded to the associate with the strongest sales performance.

Nugent joined Deeley in July 2021, after serving with Associated Builders and Contractors - Chesapeake Shores as the lower shore regional membership manager.

Nugent’s specialties include customizing risk management policies for the construction, transportation and hospitality sectors.

Nugent graduated from Salisbury University in 2017, where she studied communications and marketing. She lives in West Ocean City and enjoys bike riding on the Boardwalk and helping her clients understand insurance.

PAGE 38

JANUARY 26, 2024

Ocean City Today

Chamber honors Bunting with Berlin Award Designation presented at annual dinner last Thursday for first time since 2022

By Charlene Sharpe Contributing Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) A lifelong resident known for his devotion to the Berlin Little League and dedication to preserving the town’s historic architecture is this year’s recipient of the Berlin Award.

Town officials honored Norman “Nornie” Bunting with the Berlin Award Thursday night at the Berlin Chamber of Commerce Annual Installation and Awards Dinner.

Bunting, whose win was acknowledged with a standing ovation from the crowd, thanked everyone for the honor.

“I love my town,” he said. “Go Berlin, go Berlin go.”

After a brief hiatus, the tradition of the Berlin Award returned to highlight this year’s chamber dinner.

Melissa Reid, president of the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum and longtime art teacher at Buckingham Elementary School, spoke about the award’s origins.

“The Berlin Award is presented annually to an individual who has, by unselfish effort and dedication, made outstanding contributions of community service in the Town of Berlin and immediately surrounding region,” she said.

While no award was presented between the years of 2017 and 2022, prior to that it had been presented every year since 1964. When the award was established, it was presented by the Berlin Chamber of Commerce and endorsed by the town. It was later sponsored by the Berlin Lions Club and then the Humphreys Foundation. Joel Todd, the 2010 recipient, told the crowd Thursday night sponsorship has once again returned to the Berlin Chamber of Commerce.

Barbara Purnell, the 2016 award winner, said Bunting had been selected as the 2023 recipient for his

CHARLENE SHARPE/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Nornie Bunting received the 2023 Berlin Award Thursday. Bunting, center, is pictured with, from left, Councilman Jay Knerr, Councilman Steve Green, Berlin Chamber President Mike Poole, Mayor Zack Tyndall and Councilman Jack Orris

nearly two decades of serving the Berlin Little League as well as his several years of work on the Berlin Historic District Commission.

Bunting, who didn’t know he was getting the award until he arrived at Berlin Fire Company headquarters, where this year’s dinner was held, said he was simply supporting the town the way it had always supported him.

“I knew it was time for me to put back into our town what I’d taken out of it for so long,” he said.

In 18 years as president of Berlin Little League, Bunting said the program had won 19 state championships. He’s hoping the program will serve as the foundation local kids need to become professional players.

“We’ve got kids from Berlin now that are close to being in the show,” he said. “That’s our goal.”

He added that while his role on the Berlin Historic District Commission

was a newer one for him, he was no less devoted to it.

“I might not be the best historian but I can tell you what I do have is a photographic memory,” he said.

“When I rode up and down these streets when I was 8, 9, 10 years old on my bicycle, I remember what everything looked like then and I want it to continue to look like that now and in the future.”

Previous Berlin Award recipients include Frederick Brueckmann, 1964; Jane Q. Parker Gantz, 1965; Willis W. Hudson, 1966; Paul Scott, 1968; Audrey Pennington, 1969; Horace E. Quillin, 1970; Oscar Littleton, 1971; Anna A. Burbage, 1972; William S. Hudson, 1973; James G. Barrett, 1974; Elton W. Parsons, 1975; William Briddell, 1976; Mable S. Holland, 1977; Rev. E.C. Hackshaw, 1978; Charles T. Martin, 1979; Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Abernethy, 1980; Edgar Gaskins, 1981; no award, 1982;

Wilford and Rhoda Showell, 1983; Laurence Eastburn, 1984; Edward H. Hammond, 1985; Luther Shultz, 1986; Frank Timmons, 1987; Gee Williams, III, 1988; Stuart J. Scott, 1989; Mary E. Humphreys, 1990; Barbara Derrickson, 1991; Doris Taylor, 1992; Mildred Ann Villani, 1993; Denman E. Rayne, 1994; Raymond D. Coates, 1995; Patrick L. Henry, 1996; John T. Buehl, 1997; Frank Villani, 1998; Bennett Scott, 1999; Leola A. Smack, 2000; Ellen H. Lang, 2001; RoxAnne D. Williams, 2002; Tom & Judy Patton, 2003; Jesse Turner, 2004; Clayton P. Collins, Jr., 2005; Deborah S. Frene, 2006; William Burke, 2007; Tim and Christine Rayne, 2008; Susan Taylor, 2009; Joel J. Todd, 2010; Terri Sexton, 2011; Jan Quick, 2012; Doug Parks, 2014; Mike and Helen Wiley, 2014; Woody and Cam Bunting, 2015; Barbara Purnell, 2016; and no award, 2017-2022.

January 25 - February 1 DAY/TIME

ADDRESS

BR/BA

STYLE

PRICE

AGENCY/AGENT

Fri-Mon, 11am-4pm

Heron Harbour, 120th St., Bayside

1BR/2BR/3BR/4BR+

Condos, Towns & SF

-

Nanette Pavier/Holiday Real Estate

Sat & Sun, Noon-4pm

Harbor Court, 12801 Memory Lane

3-6BR/3.5-6.5 BA

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From $849,900

Kathleen M. Clark/Monogram Realty

Saturday 10am-1pm

301 14th Street #302, Ocean City

3BR/3.5BA

Condo

$695,000

Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Saturday 1:30-3:30pm

36939 Creekhaven Drive, Selbyville

4BR/4.5BA

Single Family

$835,000

Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Sunday 10am-Noon

301 14th Street #302, Ocean City

3BR/3.5BA

Condo

$695,000

Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Sunday 12:30-2:30pm

36939 Creekhaven Drive, Selbyville

4BR/4.5BA

Single Family

$835,000

Nancy Reither/Coldwell Banker Realty

Saturday 11am - 1pm

802 Walnut Street, Pocomoke City

4BR/1BA

Single Family

$205,000

Power of 2 Team/Hileman Real Estate

Sunday 11am-1pm

397 Ocean Parkway, Ocean Pines

3BR/2BA

Single Family

$579,900

Power of 2 Team/Hileman Real Estate

Presented free as a courtesy to Licensed REALTORS® who are regular Ocean City Today & Bayside Gazette Advertisers. For all other REALTORS®, there is a weekly charge of $10 per listing.

JANUARY 26, 2024

PAGE 39

Ocean City Today

REAL ESTATE REPORT

Md. law on EMDs no longer same

By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) As of last October, Maryland’s law regarding return of earnest money deposits, or EMDs, has changed.

The new provision of the Real Estate Brokers Act applies to EMDs delivered to the title company or broker (escrow agent) after Oct. 1. The new process is only triggered when the buyer terminates the contract.

The biggest change with the new process is that if the seller does not want the EMD disbursed to the buyer, the onus is now on the seller to act within 10 days of receipt of notice of termination from the buyer.

Specifically, the seller shall provide the holder of the trust money with a copy of a notarized, written request for mediation from a mediation company relating to the distribution of the trust money.

A seller’s inaction will result in the escrow agent being able to return it to the buyer within 30 days. This process will prevent sellers from holding deposits hostage after real estate deals go south. But, for the new

deposit process to apply, the buyer must terminate the contract pursuant to one of the specified contingencies below to trigger the new process.

“Contingency” includes a clause relating to (notice financing, in and of itself, is not on the list): • Appraisals • Back-up contracts • Condominium notices • Conservation easements • Deeds and titles • Home or environmental inspections • Homeowners association notices • On-site sewage disposal system inspections

• Property condition disclosures and disclaimer act notices • Termite inspections • Third-party approval not related to financing; or • Water and sewer assessments notices In cases where an EMD is being held and a seller terminates a contract, the old deposit handling process is still used, as well as in cases where a buyer terminates outside of the list of specified, allowable contingencies.

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

Land Trust to welcome new executive director on Feb. 1 (Jan. 26, 2024) The Lower Shore Land Trust recently named Matt Heim as the next executive director.

Heim, who will officially take over the position Feb. 1, brings nearly 20 years of nonprofit experience to the organization, the majority of which was based in local environmental initiatives.

After spending several years in Memphis, Tennessee, managing a network of community gardens and urban farms, Heim and his wife Sara returned home to the Eastern Shore, where Sara became the assistant director of the ShoreCorps AmeriCorps program at Salisbury University. A See HEIM Page 42

REAL ESTATE MARKETPLACE NNETW HE

O ET MARK

BEACH RETREAT! 12346 OLD BRIDGE ROAD, WEST OCEAN CITY 2-BR 1-BA beach retreat. Nice size Living Room, Eat-in kitchen & Breakfast Bar. Stack Washer & Dryer. Three Ceiling Fans with Lights. Wooden sundeck. Close to Assateague Island & Ocean City beaches, boardwalk & inlet, shopping & restaurants.

Community is Open Year-Round and is 50+.

BETTER CALL NOW BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE! NOW is the time to Own at The Beach! Sold Furnished $184,271

Larry Holdren Real Estate, Inc© 13901 Coastal Hwy., #8, Ocean City, MD

For More Information Call 800-252-2223 • 410-250-2700 www.larryholdrenrealestate.net • email: ocmdhre@gmail.com

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BEACH GET-AWAY 818 BAHIA DRIVE, OCEAN CITY

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 $354,250

Larry Holdren Real Estate, Inc© 13901 Coastal Hwy., Suite 8, Ocean City, MD

For More Information Call 800-252-2223 • 410-250-2700 www.larryholdrenrealestate.net • email: ocmdhre@gmail.com

BRAND NEW & 2 BLOCKS TO THE BEACH! OCEAN CITY WATERFRONT 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!!

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This custom-built 3BR/2BA home is located in the Montego Bay community in North Ocean City. Situated on a 500' wide canal this home features approx. 1700 sq. ft. of living space, an open floor plan with cathedral ceilings, a sunroom overlooking the water, granite countertops, a 40' dock, a 36' pier, a boat lift, 2 jet ski lifts and much more. Offered at $775,000 furnished.

For more information, please contact MIKE GRIMES 410.251.6821/410-250-3020 or at montegomike@verizon.net.

619 GULF STREAM DRIVE

12905 Coastal Hwy • Ocean City, MD www.montegobayrealty.com

Commentary www.oceancitytoday.com

Ocean City Today Jan. 26, 2024

Page 40

Change is good Any number of quotes would fit the occasion of this paper’s merger with The Dispatch next week, when they cease to operate as separate publications to become the OC Today/Dispatch. One of the better lines might be from a now ancient 1967 Beatles song: “You say ‘goodbye,’ I say ‘hello, hello, hello.’”

As of Monday morning, we will be saying hello to the many opportunities we could not pursue because of our businesses’ competitive myopia: our vision was so limited to beating each other that we were unable to see the bigger picture.

Granted, in their earlier years, the two papers had to concentrate on defying the odds against their survival in a market saturated with print media, including those owned by giant publishing companies.

Happily, even amusingly, those big operators got their butts kicked by the little guys and were last seen disintegrating into wisps of irrelevance, courtesy of management from afar.

Their mistake was not understanding the local market, where standard operating procedures do not always apply. As local business operators know, realizing success in this nontraditional territory requires the ability to go after new opportunities by changing as the situation demands.

This is what OC Today and The Dispatch are doing, adapting their approach to embrace opportunities they were unable to pursue because their greater concern was who got what ad or story and how they got it. Clearly, that line of thinking is not conducive to the development and execution of a longterm strategy.

It was during this past year, however, that we acknowledged what many of our readers, customers and friends have known for a long time: we are essentially the same thing, produced by the same kinds of people, with the similar backgrounds and goals.

That said, it just makes sense to combine strengths and grow into the future. We are not contracting; we are putting ourselves in position to expand our horizons.

So, today, we say goodbye to OC Today in name only. Its features and offerings, along with those of The Dispatch, will move intact to OC Today/Dispatch next week, when we will say hello, hello, hello to some great possibilities.

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 Ames STAFF WRITER ......................Hunter Hine, Tara Fischer ACCOUNT MANAGERS ........ Mary Cooper, Renée Kelly CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS MANAGER ............ Taylor Sloan PAPER COMPOSITION/PAGE DESIGN ...... Susan Parks GRAPHIC ARTIST .................................... Kelly Brown 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 2024

PUBLIC EYE

Retire? Absolutely not

I am not retiring.

I repeat, I am not retiring.

As my marital associate will tell anyone who asks, “He better not be retiring, unless he intends to do it on some other planet, or even in some other universe, as long as it’s not parallel to mine.

He would drive me crazy!”

So, no, to answer the question I’ve been asked several times since word got out that this paper is merging with The Dispatch next week, I am not moving on, not cashBy ing in, not hanging up Stewart the spurs or even slowDobson ing down so I can enjoy life, which is what people say when their real intention is to sit back, watch TV and process alcohol.

Nope, not having any of that for a variety of reasons.

One, I’m a lousy carpenter, so I wouldn’t be able to fill my newly open days by dabbling in making furniture. This is even though I have more power tools and woodworking thingamajigs than Harbor Freight and Home Depot combined.

I don’t even know how some of these tools work, and even if I did, my inability to cut a clean right angle cannot be explained away by saying, “Yeah, well, I prefer creative sawing to those boring old straight lines.”

Secondly, I don’t play golf, mostly because I don’t own any plaid shorts, which, as I understand it, must be worn at all times except when yellow or green pants are in season.

Just kidding. I don’t play golf because I don’t see the point of any game that measures success by striving to be less bad.

I’m serious. I’ve heard friends say, “I had a great round yesterday. I only missed par by 10 strokes!”

To my mind, this person might as well have said, “I had a less bad day on the course yesterday by being closer to not quite good.”

That makes no sense to me, although I will admit that similar logic does apply to my favorite outdoor sport, fishing.

“Well,” my marital associate will say on my empty-handed return from a day on the water, “did you have fun?”

“Yeah, we drank beer, talked about sports, told dirty jokes and laughed a lot.”

“Are you sure you weren’t playing golf?” she responds.

Anyway, I can’t retire because I don’t know what I’d do with myself, being not much good at the many other things that retirees do to occupy their time.

I did once try boardsailing or windsurfing but quickly discovered that if you accidentally turn the board on its side and straddle it your enthusiasm for this activity will depart pretty quickly.

The fact is, I like working in this business.

I like knowing what’s going on, I like the variety of people you get to know, and I like keeping up with its ever-changing technology.

I also like looking after the interests of the community. It’s just the nature of the business into which I was born.

Besides, I’m not half-bad at it, which is to say, I’d rather be not half-bad at this than being less good at something else.

See you next week.

JANUARY 26, 2024

PAGE 41

Ocean City Today

Letters to the editor Contradictory moves by NOAA on offshore wind Editor, Does the left hand know what the right hand is doing?

Remember a couple of years ago when the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, proposed draconian new speed rules for commercial and recreational vessels up and down the entire Atlantic Coast? This rule attempted to extend to vessels between 35 and 65 feet in length the existing requirement that vessels over 65 feet in length reduce their speed to 10 knots in what is called Seasonal Management Areas along the Atlantic Coast.

Had this amendment to the rule been approved, it would have been incredibly harmful to commercial fishermen - it would have made their jobs infinitely more expensive and compliance would have been beyond burdensome. The rule was intended and designed to protect the North Atlantic Right Whale, or NARW, from boat “strikes.” The NARW is on the endangered species list and according to NOAA, there are only about 350 left in the world, of which fewer

than 70 are reproductively active females.

NOAA received so much negative blow-back in its comments section that the extension of the rule was withdrawn and became a ‘“suggestion.” Keep that in mind later.

Fast forward to now, and we find that NOAA Fisheries has received a request from US Wind, LLC, for a Letter of Authorization for Incidental Take Regulations (basically killing) of members of several marine mammal groups over a period of five years (2025-29) during the construction of the wind farms off the coast of Maryland.

Although the request is for a “small number” of takes, the chart accompanying the request shows six harassments. Since there are about a dozen planned offshore wind farms on the Atlantic Coast-each of which will have the authority to kill a similar number — (U.S. Wind is constructing three of them) you can multiply that by 12 for a potential of over 72 NARW takes or “kills” out of a population of 350, or 20 percent).

So on the one hand a federal agency attempts to issue rules that are incredibly harmful to our fishing industry (both commercial and recre-

ational) in an effort to “Save the Whales,” and then the same agency is considering granting permission to the offshore wind industry to kill about 20 percent of the remaining population.

Of course, both US Wind and Orsted have been claiming for years that OSW does not and will not cause harm to whales or any other sea life. Go figure.

Since NOAA abandoned the extension of its rule regarding speed after the comment period it might be a good idea to file a comment regarding the incidental taking (killing) of the NARW. You can read all about it and comment at fisheries.noaa.gov/action/incidental-take-authorizationus-wind-inc. Comments close Feb. 5.

Another interesting tidbit I found in my research is a study by HeriotWatt University in Scotland. The researchers studied crab behavior near the St. Abbs Marine Station offshore wind farm and found that the high level of electromagnetism coming from the subsea cables delivering power from the turbines is affecting the blood cells of crabs, which makes them susceptible to bacterial infections.

The crabs “freeze” when they come close to electromagnetic fields generated by the cables. This disturbing behavior may also affect the creature’s migration habits. Another study by the university showed that the electromagnetic cables also negatively af-

fect lobster and lobster larvae.

(Heriot-Watt University studies published in 2021 and 2022) Think about the impact the wind farms on the Chesapeake Bay (our governor’s dream) will have on the Maryland crab industry.

Once again, I’m just trying to get information to the taxpayers so they can understand what the future may hold.

Carol Frazier Ocean Pines

Disappointment over Diakonia sewer denial Editor, I was incredibly disappointed by the commissioners recent vote to effectively delay the expansion of Diakonia.

Its mission is second to none and represents what I believe to be the finest quality of the people of Worcester County. When there is tragedy, adversity, or loss, this community comes together to help those in need like no other.

I hope the four Commissioners who saw fit to delay this project will have a change of heart, follow in the footsteps of this generous and compassionate community, and vote with great haste to get Diakonia’s project moving.

Edward M Reid Berlin

Your Online Community: www.oceancitytoday.com

PAGE 42

Ocean City Today

Heim brings experience, more Continued from Page 39 news release said Heim quickly rose to the forefront of environmental issues as the leader of a local campaign in opposition to offshore drilling for oil and gas in the Mid-Atlantic Region.

Heim went on to serve as the first director of the One Water Partnership program at Interfaith Partners for the Chesapeake, which engages faith communities in Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts.

In 2022, Heim joined Delmarva Public Media as the deputy general manager and director of development, through which he oversaw the establishment of partnerships with the Bay Journal and helped produce several environmentally focused programs.

The release said Heim’s experience over the years has involved managing multi-million-dollar budgets, overseeing fundraising campaigns and developing a strong grant writing track record. He has run successful environmental advocacy campaigns that brought together diverse stakeholders from across the political spectrum and has worked for and with multiple lower shore environmental organizations. Heim’s educational background has focused on the environmental history of the lower shore, giving him a long-range view of landscape change.

Matt Heim

“We were impressed not only with his background and experience, but with the seriousness with which Heim researched the organization,” Search Committee Chair and Board Chair Michael Lewis, said of Heim in the release. “In addition to his experience, Heim articulated a carefully thought-out agenda for the leadership transition at the Land Trust, which illustrated both his values, vision, and practical organizational skills.”

Heim will succeed long-time Executive Director Kate Patton, who announced her retirement last year after 18 years.

JANUARY 26, 2024

Assateague horse signs and Pocomoke aviary get funding (Jan. 26, 2024) The Friends of Maryland State Parks recently awarded 24 grants totaling nearly $41,800 to parks statewide through the Small Grants, Big Impact program, with two going to sites in Worcester County.

According to a news release, the funds will enable staff to collaborate with community partners to provide information on Maryland’s cultural history, replace unsafe bridges and puncheons, provide water safety resources, and promote recycling and stewardship on public lands.

A grant issued to Asssateague State Park will pay for horse safety signs. Park officials are designing two interpretive panels to educate park goers about the history of the property’s wild horses, where to find them on the island and hope to safely coexist with them while visiting.

At Pocomoke River State Park, a grant will be used to meet new USDA regulations at the Scales & Tales

aviary. The release said the work includes replacement of door fixtures, hinges, locks and some portions of rat wire that have rusted and show signs of wear and tear, among other updates.

The release said the Friends of Maryland State Parks has increased funding 207 percent since the program began ($13,619 in 2021 to $41,798 in 2024). At least one state park in each of the four state park regions has applied for and received a grant every year.

Launched in 2020, the Small Grants, Big Impact program was designed to inspire people from all backgrounds to connect with, celebrate, and support Maryland’s State Parks and their community-based programs. Through the program, the nonprofit provides $2,000 grants to state park. The release said this year’s funding exceeds last year’s allocation by 30 percent, which can be attributed to an increase in contributions.

New board members named to area symphony orchestra (Jan. 26, 2024) Hanna Woicke and Bernice Michael were recently elected to the Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors.

According to a news release, the orchestra’s mission is to inspire, enrich, educate and entertain a diverse audience of all ages through live musical performances and to engage students in the world of music through outreach programs. The mission is made pos- Hanna Woicke sible with support and guidance from a strong board of directors.

Woicke grew up and attended high school and college in Germany, before traveling around the world teaching.

In the early 1980s, she moved to Brazil, where she became a founding member of the NGO Rio Health Collective. Several years later, Woicke moved to the United States, where she worked as a counselor at a rape crisis center in New Jersey. She then went back overseas to live in Singapore, where she co-founded the Friends of the Singapore Symphony.

In the following years, the release said Woicke moved to Washington, D.C., where she worked as a counselor at the DC Rape Crisis Center and served as the president of the NGO Margaret McNamara Memorial Fund from 1998 to 2007.

Since 2007, Hanna has lived in St. Michaels, where she has contributed

as a board member of Chesapeake Music and the Academy Art Museum.

The also volunteers as a CASA, or Court Appointed Special Advocate.

Michael has worked in Washington, D.C., and earlier in New York as a senior vice president for the International Human Resources consulting firms of Drake, Beam, Morin, and Manchester Associates, responsible internationally for consultant training. In Bernice Michael New York, she spent 15 years in corporate retailing, finishing as a senior vice president of human resources.

Michael has also taught at a laboratory high school affiliated with Queens College, where was on the faculty of the English Language Institute, and received her bachelor’s and masters in medieval English, working with international students. She has also served as an adjunct instructor at New York University and Adelphi University. In 1999, Michael moved to St, Michale’s and established her own consultancy, which included ten years of managing and facilitating Marriott’s senior executive development conference at Aspen Wye River.

She is also a board member of Chesapeake Music and chaired the Chamber Music Festival for five years.

She has also served as co-chair of the Aspen Wye Fellow and serves as a docent at the Academy Art Museum in Easton.

JANUARY 26, 2024

Ocean City Today

PAGE 43

OBITUARIES ROBERT PALMER AUKER Ocean City Robert “Bob” Palmer Auker, 81, of West Ocean City, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024. Bob was born on May 17, 1942, to the late Palmer and Harriett Auker of Berwick, PennsylvaRobert Auker nia.

He was a loving husband to the late Peggy Auker, and

is survived by their three children, Robert P. Auker II (Diana), Alison A. Merritt (Stephen), and Michelle A. Prestas (Michael).

He loved having family dinners with his grandchildren, Marley, Lorelei, Sullivan, Cameron, Brayden, Zoey, and Layla. Bob also enjoyed socializing with his local friends at McDonalds.

Bob was a 1960 graduate of Berwick Area Senior High School, and obtained his bachelor of science in education in 1965 from Blooms-

burg State College. He married Peggy in 1969 and raised their family in Berwick, Pennsylvania.

Bob was the manager of multiple souvenir shops in Ocean City for many years, eventually becoming the owner of Souvenir City. The family hopes to carry on his Boardwalk legacy.

Most knew Bob’s love of John Deere tractors and Hess trucks. He always sported his John Deere jacket and hat. He enjoyed attending many NASCAR races in Dover with friends

and family. Bob was a proud volunteer firefighter for many years at the West Berwick Hose Company No. 1.

A celebration of life will be held from 1-3 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 3, at the Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Hall at 10124 Keyser Point Road in West Ocean City.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in honor of Robert Auker can be made to the American Heart Association at heart.org/donate, or the American Diabetes Association at diabetes.org.

WORLD WAR II

‘Island Hopping’ helps allies retake Pacific

By Scott Collins Contributing Writer This week, 80 eighty years ago, the Allies assaulted the island of Kwajalein and secured it within a week.

This was part of the “Island Hopping” strategy that was the basis of the Allies’ plan to retake the Pacific. The idea was to capture selected Japanese held islands and atolls, while skipping many other enemy bases, leaving them to “die on the vine,” without any support or re-supply.

The Kwajalein Atoll is the 14th largest coral atoll in the world, measured by enclosed water. While the land area consists of 97 small islands totaling only about 1,560 acres, they enclose a lagoon of 324 square miles.

It is located 2,400 miles southwest of Honolulu, Hawai’i, and is a part of the Marshall Islands. Japan considered these islands as part of its “outer ring.”

The Japanese forces defending this huge area were commanded by Rear Adm. Monzo Akiyama and consisted of approximately 8,000 troops, over half of whom were engineer or construction troops and not considered combat effective.

The main island in the atoll, Kwajalein, while two and a half miles long, was only 800 yards wide. Thus there could be no defense in depth.

The Japanese sighted their defenses facing the ocean, but the Allies’ amphibious vehicles simply drove across the coral reefs, between the numerous islets that made up the atoll, and landed on the undefended lagoon side.

Prior to the landings, Adm. Monzo had 110 combat airplanes to defend the atoll, but on Jan. 29, 1944, American carrier-based aircraft attacked the airfield and destroyed 92 of them.

Then on Jan. 31, waves of B-24 Liberator bombers, artillery and battleships pounded the small islands with hundreds of tons of high explosives.

In the U.S. Army’s History of the attack, one participant stated that, “...the entire island looked as if it had

OceanCityToday.com

been picked up 20,000 feet and then dropped.” When the 7th Division, commanded by Maj. Gen. Charles H. (“Cowboy Pete”) Corlett, landed on Kwajalein Island the next day, most of the defenders were already dead.

The casualty count reflected the success of the American strategy. Out of 8,160 Japanese defenders, 7,870 were killed and only 230 were captured, and more than half of those captured were Korean construction workers. The Allies lost 372 killed.

The worst incident for the Allies was when a Marine threw a satchel charge of high explosives into a Japanese bunker. The bunker was in fact an ammunition magazine holding torpedo warheads. Twenty Marines were killed in the subsequent explosion.

The rapidity with which Kwajalein was captured allowed the U.S. to proceed with the capture of Ebeye Island on Feb. 3-4, Engebi Island on Feb. 18-19, Eniwetok Island on Feb. 19-21 February, and Parry Island on Feb. 22-23, 1944.

Eniwetok Atoll was a few hundred

miles closer to Japan and within flying distance of the Marianas Islands, where the Allies intended to build airfields to attack Japan. Vice Adm. Raymond Spruance preceded the invasion on Eniwetok by “Operation Hailstone,” a carrier strike against the Japanese base at Truk in the Caroline Islands on Feb. 16.

Truk was considered the major Japanese logistical base in the South Pacific, some calling it the “Japanese Pearl Harbor.” Truk held the only Japanese airfield within range of Eniwetok. Adm. Spruance used overwhelming force — seven battleships, and 12 aircraft carriers with 589 aircraft. This raid destroyed 15 warships and more than 250 planes, cutting off Eniwetok from air support and supply.

On Feb. 17, 1944, the Allies began a naval bombardment, followed by landings on the north side of the atoll on Engebi Island. Resistance was so light that the naval bombardment was shortened for the landings on Eniwetok Island the following day.

This proved to be a mistake, as dug in

Japanese troops killed 37 Americans and held out for three days, suffering 800 killed before the island was secured.

This error was not repeated, and the next day as the battleships Tennessee and Pennsylvania pounded Parry Island with over 900 tons of shells. After the landing, Japanese resistance was described as “light”.

Maj. Gen. Yoshimi Nishida, commanding the defense of Eniwetok, had the same problem as the Japanese commander on Kwajalein. Due to the ring of small narrow islands surrounding a huge lagoon, he could prepare no defense in depth.

There were no mountains or jungles from which to fight or retreat. He had no air or naval support. He could only fight on the beaches against overwhelming odds and die for the Emperor. As was their usual mode of operation, the Japanese fought to almost the last man, suffering 2,670 killed and only 16 captured. American casualties were 262 killed — a ratio of ten to one.

Next week: Cherkassy

Sports & Recreation

Ocean City Today Jan. 26, 2024

Page 44

www.oceancitytoday.com

PHOTOS COURTESY SUSAN TAYLOR-WALLS

Number 0 Davin Chandler, a 6’2” junior guard and game high scorer for the Seahawks, moves the ball to the bucket. He scored 20 total team points during last Monday’s game against the Washington Jaguars.

Number 14 Sir Judah Carmack, a 6’6” junior forward for Stephen Decatur, jumps up for a shot during last Monday’s game against the Washington Jaguars.

Seahawks win another one at home in 74-35 showdown Washington High Jaguars no match for SDHS during home court game last week

Number 32 Frankie Buxbaum,a 6’2” junior forward for the Seahawks, prepares to take a shot during last Monday’s game against the Washington Jaguars. He made four baskets and one of two free throws.

By Bruce C. Walls Contributing Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) Stephen Decatur High School boys varsity basketball junior guard, Davin Chandler had a busy night last Monday, leading his team to a 74-35 home victory over the Washington High School Jaguars.

“They all played well tonight,” Coach BJ Johnson said of his team.

Chandler contributed 20 points for the Seahawks, hitting a pair of 3pointers, six baskets and going 2-for2 from the line.

In addition to Chandler’s contribution, senior Careen Bolden tossed in five baskets and Brogan Eastlack, a senior guard, added 9 points to the Seahawks tally with three baskets and hitting three out of five free throws.

Frankie Buxbaum, junior Seahawk, also contributed 9 points via

four baskets and one out of two free throws. Also scoring was Trybe Wise and Brycen Coleman, with 7 points each, Zakhari Baker with 6, Jonathan Purnell with 3, Matthew Beck with 2 and Caleb Loring with 1.

Seahawks shooters earned 18 in the first quarter, 20 in the second quarter, 17 in the third and 19 in the fourth. The Seahawks made 55 percent of their free throws while the Jaguars made 62 percent but, in the end, still lost to Stephen Decatur.

“I think we’re 11-1 (including wins at the Governor’s Cup) now. We lost to Snow Hill,” Johnson said. “We’ve got Crisfield on Wednesday. Then we have a big event on Saturday. We’re retiring one of our former player’s jersey numbers, Andre Forman. Then we play Snow Hill after them … We’re ready for Snow Hill.”

Saturday’s games should be intense with the rivalry between Snow Hill and Stephen Decatur coming to a boil, looking for a victory in a packed house.

JANUARY 26, 2024

Ocean City Today

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PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN CITY AMERICAN LEGION POST 166 SUBMITTED PHOTO/OCEAN CITY TODAY

Worcester Preparatory School Varsity Golf Coach Don McMullen (center), accepts the award for Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference Fall Sports Coach of the Year with members of this year’s golf team by his side.

From left, Ben Dawson, of the Ocean City American Legion Post 166; Stephen Decatur varsity football coach Jake Coleman; his wife Melanie; and Bo Spicer of Post 166 pose with a $2,000 check that the American Legion recently donated to Coleman and the team for new football helmets for the players.

Worcester Prep’s McMullen American Legion gives 2K to ESIAC golf coach of the year SDHS for football helmets (Jan. 26, 2024) Worcester Preparatory School officials recently announced that Varsity Golf Coach Don McMullen was named the Eastern Shore Independent Athletic Conference, or ESIAC, Fall Sports Coach of the Year.

According to a news release, McMullen has guided the golf team for the past seven years, leading them to win five ESIAC Conference Championships (2018 and 2020-2023), and placing second in two others (2017 and 2019). His dedication, expertise, and strong leadership continue to be instrumental to the team’s ongoing success.

“I’m honored with the recognition, and I share this award with our Assistant Golf Coach, Jim McKee, who has coached beside me for the past seven

years,” McMullen said in the release.

“This award is due to the many players who were committed and dedicated to playing some very competitive and outstanding golf on our team. We’re looking forward to the 2024 Fall Golf season.”

School officials expressed gratitude to McMullen for his dedication to the golf program and ongoing commitment to student-athletes’ development in the sport.

“Coach McMullen’s dedication, skill, and passion for golf have directly contributed to our team’s continued success,” Worcester Preparatory School Athletic Director Mike Grosso said in the release. “His guidance has been instrumental in developing student-athletes who excel both on and off the course.”

(Jan. 26, 2024) On the heels of its first statewide high school football championship, the Stephen Decatur varsity football team has received $2,000 from Ocean City American Legion Post 166 to buy another five state-of-the art football helmets designed to improve cushioning and reduce the impact of head strikes.

The presentation of $2,000 to championship head coach Jay Coleman was the second the veterans’ group made to the players.

Another $2,000 was presented to the school’s boosters in 2023, bringing the number of new helmets provided by the Legion to 10. The boosters have been engaged in a program to obtain the new but expensive helmets and with the latest donation every varsity player, and nearly all junior varsity players, have one.

Coach Jake Coleman came to the post to receive the ceremonial check.

He also provided the Legionnaires with an insider’s look at the tactics used by the Seahawks in the championship game to defeat what he said was a team with much bigger players who were as talented as SDHS. One of the key elements of the victory, he said, was emphasis placed on players communicating with each other on the field. When their opponent, Huntington High School, began substituting players and lineups quicker than the Decatur coaches could send in changes, the players on the field began making the adjustments themselves as they were trained to do during practices. Coleman also said that his smaller players were able to overcome their bigger opponents by their quickness.

SURF REPORT

Adequate gear essential for surfing in cold

By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer (Jan. 26, 2024) Despite last week’s report being about cold weather and water winter surfing I’m thinking this week’s report would be appropriate to be along the same lines, especially since recent weather has been quite cold.

Hopefully by the time this article is printed the weather will have mitigated to at least more normal or average temperatures. But remember that the reference to normal or average temperatures concerns the air, which is much more prone to change, up or down. The water tends to be more constant or at the least not as subject to change as the air. By the way, the water is currently in the mid-40s, which is cold indeed.

I always remember a television ad by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. The ad spoke of cold water and its danger. The theme: cold water kills. It stated that a person can die in 55-degree water in half an hour. Rather poignant, wouldn’t you say?

It’s certainly something that made an impression on me, one which I’ve never forgotten. There was no mention of wetsuit equipment so it’s safe to assume that the warning was targeted to any individual not wearing one. I pictured a person in a boat, a sportsman hunting or fishing, falling overboard and not able to get back in the boat or to get to a shoreline. Yes, cold water is a factor which everyone should be aware of.

Wetsuits change everything. They become as much a part of surfing as a surfboard. Generally speaking the colder the water, the thicker the suit in order to maintain some degree of

comfort. Wetsuits are insulation for the retention of body heat.

Even with a well-fitting suit, a small amount of water will enter the suit and enhance heat from the body.

The suit will keep this heat from escaping, thus keeping one warm, or at least warm enough to stay in the water for a significant and respectable amount of time.

To stay warm it’s a good idea to start warm. This phrase is borrowed from reading that I’ve done. Let’s say that the surfer has had a look at the ocean conditions and has decided to have a session. Getting suited up inside a warm area, be it a house, condo, or even a warmed up car or truck is part of this idea to start warm.

If driving a vehicle, hopefully it will be parked with the windshield facing the sun, assuming that it’s a sunny day. This will help provide a good area for a post session warm up

through passive solar heat.

This brings to mind the thought of removing wetsuit gear before getting into a vehicle. Removing the gear in a shielded area out of the wind would be ideal, and having an adequate container for the salty wetsuit and accessories would be great. I say all of this because I used to jump into a new truck fully wet-suited. The seat was lined with towels and the foot area was fully lined with a rubber-like material so I figured no harm would develop from rust. After some time it was discovered that the floor board area had indeed developed rust. Salty water had found a way to get under the lined foot area.

So there you have a few thoughts and ideas on cold condition surfing.

You don’t have to be a knucklehead to participate, though maybe it would help! No, just some adequate gear and a bit of forethought and you too can enjoy cold condition surfing.

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Ocean City Today

JANUARY 26, 2024

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JANUARY 26, 2024

Ocean City Today

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