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FEBRUARY 12, 2021
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Tram discount card may get punched out Aim is to reduce contact between riders, conductors
GREG WEHNER/OCEAN CITY TODAY
RISE UP
The Ocean City Fishing Pier and Jolly Roger at the Pier amusements caught some of the sun’s first rays on Wednesday morning.
By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) After last week’s announcement of the Boardwalk tram’s return to service after a one-year hiatus because of the covid-19 pandemic, Ocean City officials are now considering the elimination of a discount punch card that can be purchased on the tram to reduce interaction between riders and conductors. Transportation Committee members met on Tuesday morning to discuss the move when Mayor Rick Meehan expressed his concerns. “This isn’t purchased in advance as an incentive to ride,” Meehan said. “It’s purchased on the tram.” Buying the card on the tram initiates more contact between the two parties, he added, while the circumstances would be different if the card could be purchased in advance. If approved, the eradication of the card will be in line with measures taken to reduce bus capacities for See TRAM Page 4
By summer, a better way to get message out Tourism toolkit plan aims to advise public clearly when trouble arises By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) Confusion ran amok as the covid outbreak started to make its way through Ocean City in 2020. By time June arrived, things got worse: the overtaking of streets by unruly crowds and a pop-up car rally to help create a communication nightmare between resort officials, businesses, and residents, with mixed and outdated messages being passed around as the official word.
Now, a tourism toolkit is being developed by members of the Ocean City tourism community to communicate a unified message with businesses and residents to reduce confusion when things get a little hectic in the summer.
‘Some of the things we saw were a bit out of character for Ocean City.’ — Jessica Waters
Jessica Waters, the acting tourism director and communications manager for the city, said on Wednesday that there needs to be a way to com-
municate with the community, so all information is up to date, and everyone is on the same page. Ocean City typically sees an increase in crime beginning in June, when the area begins to receive a younger, more exuberant crowd that also seems to attract a more criminally inclined element. “Last year was a bit of an anomaly,” Waters said, suggesting that several bars and restaurants were not fully open when the rush came. “Some of the things we saw were a bit out of character for Ocean City.” For example, on June 7, 2020, multiple people were involved in an altercation that resulted in a See PLAN Page 3
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Plan would allow officials to get word out community may find beneficial when situations unfold downtown, on the Boardwalk, or during events. “Everyone knows how to answer questions from visitors and residents, but this gave us a way for us to all work together,” Waters said. The “toolkit” will be broken into three different phases, she said, and really it is a way to set expectations, create a uniform list of best practices when using social media to answer questions about crime, and setting best practices in business pertaining to having well-lit areas, working cameras, and working with the police department. The first phase, which is expected to get underway this month, will open up the discussion and let people know the tourism department is working on a toolkit for June. This is also an opportunity to let businesses and residents know they can be a part of the planning process. The second phase is to set up learning seminars with the community and attend neighborhood watches, chamber of commerce meetings, and talking about what occurred in 2020 and how to improve it in 2021. The third and final phase will go live in June and is more or less a
Continued from Page 1 stabbing between Sixth and Seventh streets on the Boardwalk. The following day, teenagers were seen taking over the road at 11th Street and clambering over a vehicle. The raucous behavior continued through the week, causing several mixed messages to go out and creating confusion in the community. This year, she said, the plan is to be prepared just in case it happens again. Enter the Ocean City Strong and Ocean City United group, which is made up of members of the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce, Ocean City Development Jessica Waters Corporation, Hotel Motel and Restaurant Association, Town of Ocean City, Worcester County Health Department, and Worcester County Tourism and is creating a communication plan, or tourism toolkit. Shortly after its creation, the group came up with a list of frequently asked questions and the best way to respond to visitors on social media. The key was to be timely and accurate when delivering tips that the
checkup to make sure everyone is on the same page, especially when the resort may face more challenging times, Waters said. “It’s important for us to work to-
gether as a community,” she said. “2020 was a challenge. The more we worked together as a community, the stronger we became. That’s what we hope to get out of this toolkit.”
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FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
Tram discount card could be dropped for safety reasons
Surf & Turf:
Continued from Page 1 safety reasons. “Our recommendation is you eliminate the punch card,” Public Works Director Hal Adkins said, acknowledging that reducing interaction between the rider and conductor was a necessary safety measure. The topic will be discussed further by City Council at a later date. In addition to discussing the possible Hal Adkins knockout of the punch card to ride the Boardwalk tram, committee members were advised that bus ridership revenue from March 2019 to January 2020 and March 2020 to January 2021 was down 74 percent, going from $2,581,194 to $661,612. Between March 2019 and January 2020, 2,288,715 passengers rode the bus. In comparison, between July 2020 and January 2021, only 458,777
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(Feb. 12, 2021) AARP Foundation will offer free tax preparation at Northside Park on 125th Street in Ocean City, Saturday, Feb. 20, Feb. 27 and March 6, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. To schedule an appointment, call 443-373-2667 or visit www.mdwebscheduler.com. “This year because of covid-19, we will be doing things a little different to protect the heath of the tax counselors and taxpayers,” according to Maria
passengers rode the bus, resulting in a decline of 1,829,938 riders, or 80 percent. Given the low ridership and the lack of events happening at the convention center on 40th Street, Meehan said he was not sure if it was wise to ramp up bus service in April. Instead, he said, he would rather see service increased sometime between mid-May and Memorial Day. And finally, after 10 Rick Meehan years of planning and developing the Ocean City Department of Public Works’ new mega complex on 64th street, dubbed the “campus project,” work is nearly complete. In fact, Adkins suggested that once the furniture is installed next week, the building will be complete. A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held on March 19 at 11 a.m. to celebrate the completion of the project.
Correction
Our story last week on relief for Ocean City restaurants said Jonah and the Whale at 26th Street and the Boardwalk did not open last year because of the covid-19 pandemic. That is not correct. The restaurant did operate last summer and had a decent year, its owners said, by filling orders for its all-you-can-eat dinners outside the restaurant.
Liebig, Lower Shore District coordinator. “We will be doing the returns virtually and with limited contact. The taxpayer will bring their documents and we will scan the documents into our system. The taxpayer will then return the following week to pick up his/her tax return.
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Cell: 443-614-6286 Direct: 443-664-2490 443 664 2490 kstor y@gofirsthome .com m www.KariStor y.com 2014-2019
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FEBRUARY 12, 2021
PAGE 5
Ocean City Today
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ESTATES AT INLET ISLE NEW CONSTRUCTION
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6BR/5.5BA waterfront. Breathtaking views of water & bird sanctuary. Exceptional craftsmanship w/attention to detail. 5 master suites. 1st floor master BR overlooks water w/gas fireplace & custom bath overlooks water. Kitchen w/quartz countertops, 2 sinks, Viking appliances, upgraded cabinets, breakfast bar, eat-in kitchen & many upgrades. Dining area, kitchen & family room overlooks the water. Family room w/soaring 22 ft ceilings & gas fireplace. In total there are 3 gas fireplaces in this home. Sunroom. Brazilian cherry hardwood floors, heated tile floors, custom window treatments, 2 zone heating system, 2 zone Manabloc plumbing system with 2 Rinnai continuous hot water heaters, hardwood trim, crown molding, tray ceilings, custom built-ins throughout. Wet bar, wine cooler & ice machine.Attic storage, central alarm system & entertainment system. Pier w/deep water dock, 10,000 lb boat lift, 2 Jetski lifts & vinyl bulkhead. MLS MDWO117388
6BR/6BA Waterfront. New custom-built home w/curb appeal & custom landscaping. Designer colors & highest quality materials used throughoute. Eat-in kitchen w/center island, breakfast bar, quartz & granite countertops, Bosch and Thermador SS appliances, beverage center, wet bar area & plenty of cabinets. Great room & family room opens to dining area overlooking the water. 1st-floor office. 2 master suites, one on the firstfloor overlooking the water with a large walk-in closet and large bathroom with double vanity and shower & heated tile floors. 2-car garage. Elevator. 2nd floor 2nd Master Suite with his & hers walk-in closets, oversize master bath & large separate sitting room. 3rd floor, also accessible with the elevator or stairs, offers another guest bedroom, exercise room with balcony & 2nd home office. MLS MDWO119294
INDIAN CREEK
8 INLET ISLE LN #8 • OCEAN CITY • $3,499,000 6 Bedrooms, 5.5 baths single family waterfront estate on .29 Acres with views of Assawoman Bay. Gourmet Kitchen with Energy Star Appliances w/double ovens & breakfast seating. Additional features include built-ins, recessed lighting and wine storage. 2-Car Garage. Located on a bulk-headed cul-de-sac lot w/42 ft. deep water slip. MLS MDWO114892
ESTATES AT INLET ISLE
MULTI FAMILY
DIRECT OCEANFRONT
DIRECT OCEANFRONT
NEW PRICE
11402 NEWPORT BAY DRIVE BERLIN - $1,349,900
6BR/7BA estate on 7 plus acres w/pool & pool house, privacy but in community close to all OC has to offer! In the exclusive neighborhood of Indian Creek on 7.77 magnificent acres w/own private pond, beautiful oversize salt water pool & pool house. 6332 sq. ft. , minutes from Assateague Island & OC. Custom finishes inside & private oasis outside. Paver patio, gazebo & fully finished pool house w/own kitchenette, workout lounge, full bath & large office/guest suite on 2nd floor. Back yard is fully fenced w/views of pond. IGourmet kitchen w/eat-in dining area, wet bar, wine cooler, center island & Corian countertops. Great room w/wood burning fireplace. 3-season sunroom w/screened in porch off kitchen overlooks pool & landscaped grounds. Formal living area & study w/fireplace on 1st floor. 2nd level master suitew/sitting area & master bath. MLS MDWO118698
WATERFRONT
12106 WIGHT ST #3 OCEAN PINES - $1,095,000
12973 INLET ISLE LANE OCEAN CITY - $1,349,000
5BR/4.5BA in the Estates of Inlet Isle. Deep water access 4BR/3BA townhome. Large living area overlooks the with room for 42ft boat. Desiger decorated and being sold ocean and has plenty of space for family & friends. fully furnished, Professional kitchen w/stainless appliances, The kitchen is off the family room and has custom tile backsplash, quartz counters, & upgraded lighting and cabinets, granite countertops, tile flooring and plenty breakfast bar. Great room with fireplace and custom water- of storage space. The large dining area is off the fall. Cocktail and wine cooler, waterfront deck overlooking kitchen making it the perfect place for enjoying family OC skyline. Master BR/BA on main level. Additional In-law meals together. On the next level you will find the suite on main level. Multple decks and screened porch. master bedroom which overlooks the ocean and has Garage, sprinkler system, elevator, upgraded lighting & ceil- a deck to watch the sunrise. MLS MDWO119324 ing fans & custom tile work. MLS MDW0111488
OCEAN BEACH
7600 COASTAL HWY OCEAN CITY - $650,000
2BR/2BA w/large den in N. OC. Panoramic ocean views from top floor Southeastern corner unit! In highly sought after building of Silver Sands. Bright & airy feel w/coastal decor. Ready for your immediate enjoyment & sold fully furnished. Upgraded kitchen w/plenty of cabinet space, granite countertops & floorsg. Balcony extends off family room. Master BR is large and both BAs updated. Large den w/closet that would be a perfect extra sleeping area, home office, or 2nd family room. In well-maintained building & close to many restaurants. MLS MDWO119350
ESTATES AT INLET ISLE
GLEN RIDDLE LOT
NEW PRICE
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WESTWOOD COMMERCE PARK
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NEW LISTING
1751 WESTWOOD DR SALISBURY - $2,390,000
2205 PHILADELPHIA AVE #D102 OCEAN CITY - $359,900
1911 ATLANTIC AVE #D3 OCEAN CITY - $235,000
1st floor 2BR/2BA & is sold furnished. Highly desirable condo complex of Harbour Towne. Family room overlooks water. 2 spacious BRs & 2 full baths. Deck w/southern exposure. Great for year-round enjoyment & has storage closet for beach toys & boat accessories. Close to the beach, boardwalk, restaurants & Jolly Roger amusement park. Comes with 2 assigned parking spaces and the complex has a beautiful Bay front pool. Used as 2nd home & weekly vacation rental. Come take a look today before it's SOLD! MLS MDWO119658
1BR/1BA ion 19th street & boardwalk. Cozy clean unit located in the heart of OC & right on the boardwalk. 1st-floor unit has direct access to the boardwalk, beach & everything you need, and the building has a laundry room. Being sold fully furnished ready for your immediate enjoyment, & basic cable is included in the condo fees. Can be your perfect beach getaway at a reasonable price. You will love the shared ocean front deck for relaxing! Come take a look before it's SOLD! MLS MDWO119702
WATERFRONT LOT
WATERFRONT LOT
An opportunity to establish a foothold in this increasingly desirable area located within 2-3 hours of Baltimore, DC & Philadelphia. Very modern warehouse/manufacturing/ distribution facility on 2.3 acres conveniently located just off the Route 50 & Route 13 interchange in Westwood Commerce Park. Building was completely renovated in 2019. Warehouse is 25,291 +/- sq.ft.; Office Area 1300 +/- sq.ft.; the Covered Loading Dock 2500 +/- sq.ft.; Steel & Concrete Mezzanine Level 1760 +/- sq.ft. Clear Height is 25'. 5 Dock high positions all with levelers & one with 14'x12' drive in door. Building has a new roof deck with R41 insulation, sidewalls with R31 insulation, lighting, dry fire sprinkler system, floor drains, heavy duty power supply & electric service, and plenty of parking for 8 trucks and 30 cars. Property is located in a Maryland Enterprise zone location with tax incentives possible. Best use would be manufacturing and/or warehouse distribution and the professional office space is an added benefit. Previously a large commercial laundry. Bring manufacturing back to the Great USA. (Listing agent is related to seller) MLS MDWC107760
COMMERCIAL
14204 WIGHT ST #301S OCEAN CITY - $609,900
Located in mid town OC oceanside. Previously used as office space but presently there are 3 units each w/own entrance. 1st floor unit has 4BR/1.5BA, kitchen, washer & dryer. 2nd floor unit has 4BR/2BA. 3rd floor is an open area w/kitchen & bathroom. Recent improvements: 40 year roof, new windows, sprinkler system, outside storage, outdoor shower & tile floors throughout. A prime visible spot & has signage on Coastal Highway. 9 parking spaces. (The zoning is R-3, 4,770 sq ft.) MLS MDWO115378
12984 INLET ISLE LANE OCEAN CITY - $949,900 STOP! COME WALK THE LOT & look at this beautiful harbor & Bayview lot w/inlet as the backdrop! Build your dream house on lot 9 at the Estates at Inlet Isle & enjoy sunrise & sunsets. Lot will accommodate large home & can accommodate large boat. Deep water slip can accommodate 42 ft boat providing easy access to the ocean. Build & enjoy your showcase waterfront for years to come! If you are not ready to build that dream home yet, buy the land and hold it. Once it's gone, it's gone. LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION! Imagine your dream home built close to world class Marinas, Fishing, Golf Courses,Assateague Island, Ocean City Boardwalk, and Restaurants.Your family and friends are sure to make memories that last a lifetime here. Come take a look at this dream home location and live the lifestyle! MLS MDWO117202
COMMERCIAL
10006 SEAPLANE LN BERLIN - $385,000
Build your dream house & enjoy the sandy beach, water views & the OC Skyline. 28,113 sq. ft. lot will accommodate large home. Pick your builder, design, & build your showcase waterfront home! If you are not ready to build that dream home yet, buy the land & hold it. Lot is in amenity rich community of Glen Riddle. Enjoy the outdoor pool, tennis, fitness center, marina. MLS MDWO112632
LIGHTHOUSE SOUND
COMMERCIAL
GOLF AND BAY VIEWS!
312 S HERON GULL CT OCEAN CITY - $750,000
6509 HAMPTON RD LOT 18 BERLIN - $649,900
13010 WORCESTER HWY BISHOPVILLE, MD - $390,000
RACETRACK RD BERLIN, MD - $260,000
Beautiful Bay views. Build your dream home on lot 90 in Heron Harbour. 9602 sq.ft & 97 ft. of water frontage. Will accommodate large home & has deep water dockage w/rip rap & boat dock in place can accommodate up to 3 watercraft. 1 of the slips can hold up to a 35ft boat. If you are not ready to build that dream home yet, buy the land and hold it. Once it's gone, it's gone. In amenity rich community of Heron Harbour. Heron Harbour recreation association has 2 outdoor pools, indoor heated pool, tennis courts, club house, sauna & fitness center. MLS MDWO119666
Do you need a home office or maybe even 2? How about a workout room, or maybe a playroom? Are you dreaming of kayaking or paddle boarding off your dock? How about a boat or jet skis? Would you like a nice yard to play in or grow your own vegetables? Well here it is, 5+ acres in a cul-desac in the tranquil community of Indian Creek ready & waiting for you. You dream it... You build it... You Live it! All this & 2 golf courses within 2 miles & Assateague Island is 3 miles away where you can enjoy the ocean & beautiful white sand beaches. You can be in downtown Berlin or Ocean City in 15 minutes to enjoy the boardwalk and restaurants. So close, yet such a peaceful setting. Come take a look today before it's SOLD!! MLS MDWO100390
Commercial piece w/high visibility w/14.33 acres on corner of Route 113 & Route 610 across from the former Emings BBQ. This is your opportunity to establish a foothold in this increasingly desirable area on the Eastern Shore. Possibilities are endless! Come take a look today before it's SOLD! MLS MDWO113678
Zoned C1 across from the Casino on the west side of Rt 589. This is a heavy traffic area for cars to and from RT 50 and RT 90. This 1.01 acre lot has a survey already completed and a septic perk on file. This is a prime commercial location. Buy it before it's SOLD!!! MLS MDWO104326
SOUTHHAMPTON DR • #LOT 17 BISHOPVILLE - $249,900
Build your dream home in Lighthouse Sound adjacent to hole 2, one of the largest lots boasting 24,662 sq ft (.57 acres). Will accommodate a large home. Design, build and enjoy your showcase home for years to come! If you are not ready to build that dream home yet, buy the land & hold it. If you are looking for luxury lifestyle both on this community offers it all minutes from OC, restaurants & shopping. MLS MDWO102900
WORCESTER HWY BISHOPVILLE, MD - $290,000 Prime 3.61 Acres Property hits the market! It's all out the location & visibility w/high traffic density. Conveniently located on Route 113 & Hamond Road. It is diagonally across from the former Emings BBQ. Owner financing is available w/acceptable contract. Come take a look today before it's SOLD! Possibilities are endless. MLS MDWO113680
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 2021 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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FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
Big Flag ceremony planned for Memorial Day weekend By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) Two flag ceremonies on the beach in Ocean City – costing approximately $20,000 – were among several “added value” events that Ocean City plans to host this summer, including two major concerts, several fireworks displays, drive-in movies, and O.C.Toberfest. The flag ceremonies are expected to take place over the Memorial Day weekend and will honor frontline workers and those who lost their lives to covid-19. Mayor Rick Meehan said that most years the resort hosts a salute to the military services, but this year will honor frontline workers. “It resonates with me … and certainly the first responders,” Meehan said during the meeting. “It will be a weekend to honor and celebrate.” He added that the refocusing of the celebration is “a sincere thank-you from Ocean City.” The flag ceremonies will be held on May 28 and May 30, and the flag is nearly 45,000 square feet. Meehan said he wants to have the first responders and healthcare workers hold the flag. In addition to kicking off the season with a flag ceremony, the mayor also
said he wants to plant the first umbrella. T.E.A.M. Productions CEO Bob Rothermel presented the calendar of events during an Ocean City Tourism Commission meeting on Monday afternoon, and suggested the city try to host more mid-week events to help fill a gap when the resort is not as busy. Rothermel suggested the city front load the summer by hosting a big concert in June. The move could fuel tourism early on, and the concert could be a drive-in style at the inlet parking lot, he said. The lot could host 500 cars comfortably, which would allow for social distancing. He added that he is in negotiations to get 2020 Grammy-nominated bluegrass artists Billy Strings to play the concert. In August, Rothermel said he hopes to see the return of ArtX at Northside Park on 125th Street, and that he is working to get American Country Music artist Brad Paisley to headline an event. In addition to the two major concerts planned for the summer, several smaller concerts are being planned from June through August at North Division Street. Drive-in movies that were hosted at the convention center in 2020 are ex-
OC TODAY FILE PHOTO DON HARRIS
Ocean City plans to honor frontline workers by hosting a Big Flag ceremony on the beach to kick off the Memorial Day weekend. This photo of a flag unfurling on the beach in Ocean City was taken in 2012.
pected to be moved to the inlet parking lot, and will take place on Mondays from June 14 through Aug. 30. Events for kids will also take place in the lot, where people will be charged to park. Starting in June, the city plans to host fireworks displays at Northside Park on Sunday at 9 p.m., and at the beach on Thursdays at 10:30 p.m. Toward the end of the season, the city will host O.C.Toberfest, which will include a 100- x 300-foot beach maze from Oct. 22-24, a pet parade on Oct. 23, which has attracted over 200 participants over the past four years, and the Great Pumpkin Race on Oct. 24. Of course, all of these events are contingent on the coronavirus situa-
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Nanette Pavier Cell: 443-235-3498
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tion. “Covid is still a roadblock,” Rothermel said. The city has budgeted $300,000 for events in 2021, and the fireworks, ArtX Concert, O.C.Toberfest, beach concerts, labor, and a producer fee all account for that amount. Additional events, such as the drivein movies totaling $72,000, the drivein concert for $200,000, major beach concert for $350,000, a drone show every week for a total of $200,000, and the big flag at $20,000, would breach the total budgeted by $842,000. The calendar of events has been forwarded to City Council, and a discussion will be held at a later date.
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Build your water front dream home with a dock to keep all your water toys- in the wonderful community of Heron Harbour with the best amenities of any in Ocean City. This lot is the largest of the remaining lots and faces south with a wonderful view of the sanctuary and colorful sunsets. Very affordable HOA fee includes; 2 outdoor pools, indoor year round pool, sauna, fitness center & tennis courts
Top Class Amenities: 2 Outdoor Pools, Indoor Pool, Fitness Center, Sauna & Tennis
301 14th St #406 Laguna Vista Top Floor Penthouse Style Unit & Boat Slip #6
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Stunning Seaside Décor & Beautifully Furnished Luxury 3 Bedroom 3.5 Bath, 1,900 Sq Ft & Boat Slip #6 MDWO118304 Top floor unit with cathedral ceilings & BOAT Dock #6. South facing deck with views of bay & peaks of ocean. Decorator furnished & feels more like a home with; gas fireplace, stunning finishes, luxury flooring, granite counters, ceramic tile in kitchen & bathrooms, custom kitchen cabinets, large island with seating & lots of extra closet space. Unique open floor plan features large living areas, each bedroom has a bathroom. Located bayside on 14th St close to the beach & boardwalk. Fantastic amenities include indoor pool & fitness center. Never rented, turn-key unit.
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
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Ocean City Today
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
OC Downtown Street Lighting Program aims to limit crime By Neely James Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) The Ocean City Development Corporation faced a challenging year for revitalization projects. Even so, high building material costs and delayed shipments did not deter the organization from continuing downtown improvement projects. Now, the nonprofit corporation hopes to carry the momentum forward into Kevin Gibbs 2021 by reinvesting in the Downtown Street Lighting Program to improve public safety. At an Ocean City Police commission meeting on Monday, OCDC President Kevin Gibbs said his organization will work with the Town of Ocean City and the Ocean City Police Department to reinvigorate the voluntary lighting improvement program to aid with crime prevention. Retired Officer Mark Pacini presented an overview of the program and a map of downtown areas the program hopes to target. Pacini walked side streets between the Boardwalk and Washington Lane, identifying some of the city’s darkest
public spaces and rights of way. Mayor Rick Meehan suggested the program expand focus, “all the way back from the Boardwalk to Baltimore Avenue.” OCDC hopes business and property owners will be incentivized to join the program by up to 50 percent reimbursement of the cost of purchase and installation of light fixtures, up to a maximum of $500 assistance. Gibbs installed LEDs along the exterior of his family restaurant, The Dough Roller, lighting up popular walkways along South Division Street and the Boardwalk. “The project only cost the business between three to four hundred dollars,” Gibbs said. Meehan reminded Gibbs that hotels have reported nuisance light shining through guest windows. Gibbs, in turn, suggested directional lighting that can be pointed to specific areas, limiting light interference with hotel windows. As the commission brainstormed about viable crime reduction solutions for property owners, Meehan asked, “Have we talked to anyone about Ring doorbells?” Police partnerships with Ring, an Amazon video doorbell unit, are an established law enforcement tool: Ring
PHOTO COURTESY MOON HONEY ARTS PHOTOGRAPHY
Ocean City Development Corporation plans to reinvest in the Downtown Street Lighting Program to improve public safety.
currently works in partnership with more than 1,300 police departments in the United States. If OCPD chose to partner with Ring, they would gain access to a Law Enforcement Portal, through which they could request footage from owners through its
Neighbors app, where Ring owners may upload clips from video doorbells. Through the app, police can request video from a specific location, and anyone in that area with a Ring camera can voluntarily send videos to their See RING Page 9
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
PAGE 9
Ocean City Today
Ring partnership possible
PD seasonal hiring update By Neely James Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) Officer calls for service in January 2021 were down 54 percent compared to last year, and Ocean City Police Department Chief Ross Buzzuro said the numbers are directly related to a drop in visitorship due to covid. Buzzuro, after a relatively quiet Ocean City shoulder season, is surprised and optimistic after OCPD saw an in-
crease in new seasonal police officer applicants, up from 109 applicants last year to 156. Ross Buzzuro Fewer officers failed the program this year, 26 applicants have been hired, and 53 applicants remain in the process, said Buzzuro. As businesses owners hope for a busy summer
season, the promise of increased seasonal police force presence is welcome news. Public safety aid applicants, however, have decreased this year, partially due to matriculation from aid to officer positions. Nine public safety aids have been hired and remain in the academy, and ten aids will be returning for a second season. Mayor Rick Meehan asked Buzzuro to clarify how many See OCPD Page 10
Continued from Page 8 local police department if they want to participate. Meehan’s mention of a Ring camera partnership presented a new topic for the commission, but all agreed the subject was worth exploration. Ocean City Councilman Peter Buas said he just purchased a $200 Ring doorbell for his home and feels the expense would make implementation of an OCPD/Ring partnership difficult. As the video doorbell was not in-
cluded in the commission’s agenda, Gibbs said OCDC would gather information and report back to OCPD. For now, the Light Up Downtown Program provides an opportunity for local businesses and property owners to offset the cost of improving public safety. For more information or to fill out the OCDC application for the Downtown Lighting Program, visit https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/l ight-up-downtown-program/
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PAGE 10
OCPD seasonal presence strong Continued from Page 9 public safety aids the town can anticipate returning from last year, and Buzzuro said 45 percent of last year’s aids will return. Buzzuro hopes to continue efforts to bring back more of last year’s trained aids, but the issue, he said, is that “[public safety aids] are joining departments from all over because now they’re eligible. We’re fortunate because we are at our constant, but other departments are experiencing vacancies, so they are hiring officers that have worked with us.” Buzzuro assured Meehan that the public safety aid presence and a potential increase in seasonal officers will allow OCPD to be a strong presence in Ocean City as the town anticipates, hopefully, a busy summer.
Ocean City Today
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Commission weighs nonconformity By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) Looking to address long-term concerns about redevelopment in the resort, the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission is scheduling a work session to examine regulations involving building and site plan allowances known as nonconforming uses. Commission Chairwoman Pam Buckley, who raised the matter during the group’s Feb. 2 meeting, said past attempts to discuss pyramidal zoning, nonconformity and change of use provisions with the City Council and Board of Zoning Appeals have thus far failed. “The two concerns right now are pyramidal zoning [and] change of use [with] parking,” she said. Pyramidal zoning is a policy that
allows a property to be developed according to its “highest and best use,” as in allowing a high-end condominium complex to be built on a parcel zoned for industrial use. In Ocean City, that means residential uses sit at the top of the zoning pyramid. Nonconformity allowances permit previously approved conditions to be maintained for subsePam Buckley quent re-development regardless of regulation revisions. Commission member Peck Miller agreed the issue was long overdue for discussion. “I think right now non-conformity is our biggest issue by far,” he said.
Commission member Lauren Taylor said the city’s zoning code language regardomg “change of use” is convoluted. “It’s definitely something we need to clarify,” she said. Buckley’s concerns about pyramidal zoning are being prompted by redevelopment trends. “We’re only a 10-mile town [that’s] 99 percent developed [and] now we’re redeveloping,” she said. “There’s a lot more consequence now on things being redeveloped than in past.” Miller suggested the commission assess the use of non-conformity to develop reasonable standards. “Maybe applying conditional use permits to that would allow us to at least have a reference for each as we come to it,” he said. Commission member Joe Wilson asked if the zoning considerations should be vetted initially with the mayor and City Council prior to holding an internal work session. “These are all items we need to discuss … but I think getting them involved earlier rather than later would behoove us,” he said. “Otherwise we’re just spinning our wheels.” Miller agreed the matters should be brought before both the City Council and Board of Zoning Appeals to reach consensus. “I think the sooner we talk about nonconformity in a meeting with everybody at least it’s going to shed light on where we’re going,” he said. Pointing out that having staff compile relevant documentation would take upwards of a month, Buckley said early-March would be the soonest that any conversations could convene. “Nonconformity and change of use will take care of a lot, especially with parking issues,” she said. The commission agreed to ask the staff to prepare related information and schedule a work session when all members are available.
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Ocean City Today
County approves request for groundwater report funding By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) A review of Worcester County’s Groundwater Protection Report at a cost of between $5,000 and $10,000 was approved by the Worcester County Commissioners this week, following a request from the county’s Environmental Programs departBob Mitchell ment. In his memorandum to the commissioners, Robert Mitchell, the director of Environmental Programs, said the document, which was approved by the Maryland Department of the Environment in July 1989, was “designed to protect groundwater by specifying minimum lot sizes, methods of construction and treatment zones with differing sewage disposal options.” Worcester has lots and subdivisions that were evaluated prior to the report’s existence, and those properties come with conditions and rights.
Now, builders and owners are beginning to develop some of the older lots for home sites. “We are also encountering challenging conditions with replacement systems in these subdivisions that need to be reviewed as well,” Mitchell wrote. As a result, the Environmental Programs proposed using the services of Cliff Stein from Earth Data to examine policies for reviewing new and replacement systems for pre-approved lots. In addition, Stein would review the Groundwater Protection Report for potential revisions. Stein was a regional consultant for the Maryland Department of the Environment and worked on the regulations at the time the Groundwater Protection Reports were written. The Department of Environmental Programs has the money in a special account to cover the cost for the consultation in a match program for rural legacy land protection. The commissioners approved the request unanimously without discussion.
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FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
EA Engineering to offer services at landfill By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) EA Engineering will continue to monitor groundwater and provide analytical services at the Central Landfill Facility in Newark for the 2021-22 calendar years. The Worcester County Commissioners last Tuesday agreed to extend its arrangement with EA for approximately $182,000. The amount is an increase of nearly 12 percent from the 2019-20 calendar years and results from the additional analytical and reporting requirements from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) along with the inclusion of Cell 5, said county Public Works Director John Tustin, P.E. Tustin added that $91,000 is budgeted annually for this effort. To meet the Department of the En-
vironment’s requirements, Tustin listed the necessary efforts in his memorandum: “increased costs associated with laboratory analytical services and the expanded sampling, collection and reporting efforts to include the Method 8011 analyses; increased effort for field personnel and reporting requirements with MDE, which inJohn Tustin clude an increase of approximately 20 additional hours per sampling event due to the additional monitoring efforts for the Method 8011 analyses; and increased effort for statistical analysis, interpretation of results and report preparation, approximately 30 hours per sampling event.”
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Furthermore, as a result of assessment monitoring, groundwater protection standards were developed in 2017 as required by the Department of the Environment. Besides the statistical analysis previously performed, additional statistics are now performed to determine statistical increases over groundwater protection standards at each event. Also, now that landfill cell five has been constructed, statistics for the cell five wells are now required and are performed at each sampling event. Funding is available and will be in-
cluded in current and future solid waste operating budgets. Commissioner Anthony “Chip” Bertino asked if other companies could complete the work. Tustin replied that in his memorandum he noted that the Public Works Department did bid the same type of groundwater monitoring services at the three closed landfills in the past and EA Engineering’s bid was significantly lower than its competitors for the work. The county commissioners voted unanimously in favor of the proposal.
Pines board denies claims by Phillips of hostile workplace By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) After holding a pair of closed session meetings over an ethics and conduct complaint against an unnamed director the week before, the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors last Thursday held a special meeting lasting only several minutes to dismiss the allegations. Director Dr. Colette Horn opened the brief virtual meeting on Feb. 4 by stating that an association employee had filed a complaint alleging a current board member violated Resolution B-08 - Director and Officer Colby Phillips Ethics and Conduct. Reading from a prepared statement, Horn said the matter was brought to the boards’ attention on Jan. 26. “A thorough investigation of the com- Larry Perrone plaint was conducted by OPA Counsel,” she said. Within three days, another closed session meeting took place on Jan. 29 to review the results of the Colette Horn investigation. “After reviewing the complaint and the results of the investigation the board found that there was no violation of Resolution B-08,” she said. According to reports from Ocean Pines Forum moderator Joe Reynolds, the complaint was filed against Ocean Pines President Larry Perrone by Director of Amenities and
READ THE
Operational Logistics Colby Phillips alleging he created a hostile workplace. Association governing documents mandate that ethics and conduct grievances filed against board members are addressed within two weeks of receipt in a public meeting. Further, Resolution B-08 states meetings to consider complaints can be held in closed session only if authorized by the Maryland HOA act. “For the purpose of determining authority to hold such meetings in closed session, Directors shall be considered employees of the Association,” the resolution states. Reynolds, noting Phillips’ charges were filed through the association’s HR Department, wondered if qualifying Perrone as an employee created a conflict. “Who did the HR lawyer investigating the charges for the board represent?” he wrote. If a motion to remove a board member is introduced, an open meeting is required to allow testimony. Remedies for violations include, but are not limited to, removal from the board for cause. Resolution B08 also restricts board members from providing specific direction to association management, employees or vendors without prior authorization. Additionally, B08 prohibits board members from retaliating against an employee alleging impropriety. After Horn read the statement about the alleged violation into public record, Perrone moved to adjourn the meeting, which brought forth audible sighs of disbelief from among the roughly dozen online viewers. Bayside Gazette/Ocean City Today reached out to Phillips who declined to comment on the case.
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Ocean City Today
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
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By Neely James Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) Americans are stressed out. Difficult conversations about political polarization, discrimination, and injustice are intensified by covid-19. It’s barely possible to remember what day it is, much less to pack reusable grocery bags before going to the store. However, Del. Brooke Leirman of Baltimore City has faith that Marylanders can remember their masks and their bags. During a virtual rally on Feb. 3, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, businesses and local leaders agreed with Leirman and urged lawmakers to pass the statewide Plastic Bag Reduction Act (HB314/SB223) to ban single-use plastic bags. Del. Christopher Adams (R-37B) expressed concern with “the idea that we are putting a burden on businesses at the wrong time, but in addition employers, their employees don’t like using reusable bags in this covid-19 pandemic environment.” “Nobody is asking retailers to foot the cost of this. Just like they charge for a can of beans or a side salad, they can charge for bags,” Leirman said. Ryan James, owner of Mother’s Cantina in Ocean City, said that “in 13 years of adding a microcharge for carryout food in paper bags, I have never once heard a complaint. “Some guests have even started bringing their own reusable bags,” he continued. “There is no longer a need for plastic bags in our community; we have affordable alternatives.” Maryland’s coast draws vacationers with surf, seafood and clean beaches. Although environmental groups are prevalent on the Eastern Shore, the
Ocean City Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation still find plastic bags littering the beaches, and dirty beaches affect the town’s bottom line. “Every additional pound of plastic found on the beach drives away big percentages of tourists. Nobody wants to vacation on a dirty beach,” said Leirman. “Ensuring that each of us is doing our part to keep the beach in Ocean City pristine will result in additional tourism and dollars for local businesses.” Like Ocean City, Baltimore City’s Mayor Scott hopes to promote tourism by cleaning up the environment in his port city. Covid-19 restrictions on retailers and restaurants caused a 30 percent increase in singleuse plastics within the city’s waste stream. Leirman said, “It’s impossible to escape the sight of plastic bags [in Baltimore],” and that city residents describe plastic trash as “urban tumbleweeds” that blow through city streets into Baltimore’s harbor. Scott, born and raised in Park Heights, knows from experience that reducing plastic waste will improve his city’s image and community health. After less than one year in office, Scott enacted a local plastic bag ban that is scheduled to go into effect on July 9, 2021. He applauded the statewide effort and added that he’s “working to make Baltimore a zero-waste city.” Maryland’s 2019 styrofoam ban provides evidence that a plastic bag ban will work. Eliminating styrofoam from retail and restaurant use has resulted in “a whole lot of normal,” Leirman said. It did not upend businesses. What that demonstrates is that prohibitions on the worst forms of single-use plastics are easy to implement,
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
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Ocean City Today
Bill will ban single-use plastic bags in state and they are easy to adjust to.” Sen. Malcolm Augustine feels the bill should be passed immediately. He knows Marylanders and his Prince George’s County constituents have a lot of worries this year, but he agreed that the Plastic Bag Reduction Act should still be prioritized because “[lawmakers] want to be responsive to people out there and give some time for implementation of this.” If passed now, the bill’s timeline gives shoppers, retailers, and restaurants until July 1, 2021 to get comfortable with the idea that plastic bags will no longer be offered at the checkout counter. Augustine said lawmakers have enough evidence to show that, “This banning of single-use plastics will not negatively impact small businesses …the data is clear.” Jacob Ross, Mid-Atlantic Campaign organizer of Oceana and rally host, appealed to participants to advocate for quick passage of the Plastic Bag Reduction Act and said, “Ignoring the risk of plastic bag pollution endangers the future of Maryland’s healthy ocean resources and hinders the growth of thriving coastal economies. With microplastics accumulating in the Chesapeake Bay, there’s no time to lose.” (Disclosure: Ryan James is the husband of writer Neely James).
PHOTO SCREENSHOT DURING MEETING
During a virtual rally on Feb. 3, business owners and local and state leaders gathered to urge lawmakers to pass the statewide Plastic Bag Reduction Act (HB314/SB223) to ban single-use plastic bags.
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Ocean City Today
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Worcester receives funding for vaccinations By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) Gov. Larry Hogan announced last Thursday the release of more than $123.2 million in funding to support Maryland’s local health
departments, including resources for ongoing covid-19 vaccination activities. “As the state begins mass vaccination, and continues to expand the distribution network of vaccinators,
county health departments will play a critical role in our focus on hard-toreach areas and underserved populations,” Hogan said. “I want to thank and extend my appreciation to all of the vaccinators who are working
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around the clock to serve the community.” The funding to each jurisdiction is based on their populations in proportion to Maryland’s total population. The awards will be made on a reimbursable basis with oversight by the Maryland Department of Health. Worcester County will receive $982,756 in covid-19 funding. In addition, Hogan’s administration will submit a supplemental budget request to the General Assembly that supports county health departments for deficits related to closing their self-supported fee-forservice clinics. If this funding is approved, the Maryland Department of Health will award the funding as a grant to the local health departments where they will be required to substantiate their deficits, according to a press release from the governor’s office. Worcester County would receive $557,826.74. At this time, Maryland is receiving just 12,000 doses per day from the federal government. Last Friday, the state opened a seSee CLINICS Page 18 Crossword answers from page 38
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
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Clinics offered for Phase 1C group Continued from Page 16 ries of mass vaccination sites to serve eligible residents, with the first of these set to open at the Baltimore Convention Center and Six Flags America in Prince George’s County. Atlantic General Hospital has received slightly more than 5,065 doses of the vaccine so far after receiving 1,000 Moderna second doses for three of its clinics this week, said Sarah Yonker, director of marketing for the hospital. Community members in Phases 1A, 1B and 1C have received about 3,250 of those doses. The hospital has 319 staff members who have completed Pfizer and 219 who have completed Moderna. Another second dose Moderna clinic took place on Thursday. Currently, the hospital is offering covid-19 vaccine clinics for targeted risk groups every week in the main lobby by appointment only. “We are focused on age 65 and up,” Yonker said. “We do have selected targeted clinics for particular groups in the 1C and up as needed, such as educators.” Last week, 457 doses of the vaccine were administered through the clinics. Online registration is required through the state of Maryland’s covid19 vaccine scheduling website, marylandvax.org. Photo identification is required at the appointment. Patients and community members are advised to arrive no more than 15 minutes prior to their appointment. For more information about how to register for a vaccine clinic, visit agh.care/vaccine or call the coronavirus vaccine information line at 410-641-9272. In Worcester County, 8,456 people have received the first dose, or 16.18
percent of the population. Meanwhile, 2,111 people have received the second dose, or just 4.04 percent of the county population. As of Thursday, the Worcester County Health Department has received 3,200 first doses and administered 3,009 of them. This week, the health department held clinics at the Worcester County Recreation Center in Snow Hill and Northside Park. The Snow Hill clinic was a mix of first and second doses, while the Northside Park clinic was for first doses, said Travis Brown, the public affairs officer for the health department. Clinics scheduled for next week will be for second doses. The Worcester County Health Departments hosts vaccine clinics at the Worcester County Recreation Center in Snow Hill on Tuesdays, West Ocean City Park and Ride on Thursdays, the Elks Lodge in Pocomoke on Fridays and the Worcester County Health Department facility in Snow Hill on Saturdays when doses are available. Last week, the health department updated how it registers individuals for the vaccine clinics. There is now a single central waiting listing that includes all clinics operated by Worcester Health. To register for this waiting list, call 667-253-2140. Individuals are advised to leave a phone number, so they can be notified when an appointment time becomes available based on eligibility. The number that will show up when the Worcester County Health Department Covid-19 Vaccine Call Center calls you back, will come up as 410-632-1100 or 410-632-1016.” The call center will request the following information: first name, last name, email address, phone number, age, first dose or second dose, Phase 1C eligibility, any underlying health
conditions, and county and state of residence. The Ocean City Fire Department has joined the Worcester County Health Department to assist in administering the vaccine. Battalion Chief Rick Koch has been designated as the liaison between the fire department and the health department to distribute the vaccinations based on availability. During a presentation to the Ocean City Mayor and Council on Tuesday, Fire Chief Richard Bowers said the Fire and EMS Division paramedics received training from the Worcester County Health Department to assist in the administration of the vaccine. “We developed a plan to host clinics, which included vaccine handling and storage, maintaining vaccine supplies and allocations, we met the requirements of the state mandated software system, and a vaccine program communication plan was developed and then, of course, we had to monitor what we were doing and how we were doing it with the health department,” Bowers said. Ocean City Firefighter/Paramedic Steven Twilley said most of the public is currently receiving the Moderna vaccine. “It requires two shots 28 days apart, but actually you can wait longer than that. You can actually wait up to 42 days to get that second shot,” Twilley said. Koch added that the Ocean City Fire Department’s supply of the vaccine comes from the health department. It does not receive vaccines directly from the state’s allocation. He said the fire department received 100 doses for this Thursday’s clinic. Koch said the vaccine vials are typically overfilled, so the Ocean City Fire Department can receive 11 to 12 doses See OCFD Page 20
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Ocean City Today
Let Bunting G o To Bat For You! 9025 MARSHALL CREEK ROAD • NEWARK 3BR/2BA. Water views at every window. Covered porch, patio w/pavers, small pier w/dock, 8'x12' shed w/playhouse attached. Large living room opens to kitchen w/island & seating, coffee station, double ovens & breakfast nook. Separate laundry room w/washer & dryer, and Rinnai for all your hot water needs. Screened porch w/hot tub. Bathroom on 1st floor has claw foot tub & shower. Family room w/builtin bookshelves & gas fireplace. 2nd floor loft could be used as BR since it does have a closet. Walk in attic located off loft area. New siding & roof. $515,000
10547 GRIFFIN ROAD • BERLIN Great location on this corner lot with easy access to Rt. 50 & the beach. Lots of parking w/driveway on Friendship Road or on Griffin Road by the 2 car garage. Almost one acre of land & covered front porch. Plenty of room in this home with possible 4-5 rooms can be used as bedrooms. Mud room w/room for storage. Dining/family room leads to kitchen or spacious living room. Separate laundry room. Some rooms have hardwood floors so there could be more under the carpets. Attic access from the pull down stairs. $280,000
9821 KEYSER POINT ROAD #8D1 • WEST OCEAN CITY Great location only a few miles to Ocean City. Unit has the wow factor. Enter to floor to ceiling builtins in the living room. 2BR/2BA w/open concept to kitchen & dining area. Kitchen w/bar seating. Screened porch off of dining area. Split bedroom plan w/master BR & BA on one side BR & hall bath on the other. Separate laundry room complete the unit. New heat pump in 2018. To see it is to buy it! $189,900 Cam Bunting, Broker Bunting Realty, Inc. 24 Broad Street, Berlin, MD 21811 Office: 410-641-3313 • Cell: 410-713-2065 • www.buntingrealty.com
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OCFD informs City Council about vaccine procedures Continued from Page 18 from each vial. “Right now, the county is in Phase 1C of their vaccination priority group,” Twilley said. “We’re still doing a majority of 1Bs.” With a goal to offer at least one clinic per week, Ocean City paramedics are hosting clinics in the community room at Northside Park on 125th Street and the Worcester Street Police Substation. As of Tuesday, the Ocean City Fire Department has hosted 11 clinics with the next clinic on Thursday. Ashley Miller, the deputy communications manager for the Ocean City Police Department, said all employees who received the first dose have completed their second dose. The vaccines are administered by the Ocean City Fire Department. As for the Berlin Police Department, Chief Arnold Downing said eight officers and three staff members have received their second doses of the vaccine. Through the federal long-term care program, CVS and Walgreens are conducting vaccination clinics at Maryland nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Participating CVS pharmacies, including those in Ocean City, will begin to administer vaccines to eligible populations on Friday. Patients must register in advance at CVS.com or through the CVS Pharmacy app. People without online access can contact CVS customer service at 800-746-7287. Walk-in vaccinations without an appointment will not be provided. Giant, Walmart, Safeway and Rite Aid pharmacies have also joined the state’s vaccine distribution network in critical areas. For vaccine information and resources, visit covidlink.maryland.gov. As of Thursday, Worcester’s covid19 positivity rate was 6.05 percent, a decrease from 6.67 percent last week. That’s still higher than the state’s rate of 5.08 percent. Worcester has confirmed 66 new cases since last week. This brings the county’s total cases since March to 3,169. The Maryland Department of Health reported Berlin and Ocean Pines had 1,286 and Ocean City had 802. Worcester has recorded 87 deaths from covid-19. As of Wednesday afternoon, 10 patients with coronavirus were in Atlantic General Hospital – seven in the medical/surgical unit and three in the intensive care unit, Yonker said. Hospital personnel have cared for seven patients who have come off a ventilator. Atlantic General has discharged 228 coronavirus patients who are recovering.
In the meantime, public health officials are encouraging anyone who feels sick, or who may have had contact with someone who is to get tested. All Worcester County residents, employees and their children 8 years and older who are experiencing covid-19 symptoms are eligible for testing. People who suspect they may have the virus should call their primary care providers or the health department. The Worcester County Health Department has a hotline Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to determine if a person should be tested. Call 410-632-1100, select option eight and then press one. The Worcester County Commission on Aging at 4767 Snow Hill Road, in Snow Hill, Maryland 21863, offers drive-through covid-19 testing on Wednesdays from 1-3:30 p.m. by appointment only. Testing dates are scheduled for Feb. 17 and Feb. 24. Worcester County Health Department offers drive-through covid testing at the Pocomoke Health Department site, 400 Walnut St. # A, Pocomoke City, Maryland 21851, by appointment only for adults 18 years and older Mondays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Testing is available on Feb. 15 and Feb. 22. In addition, the health department offers drive-through covid testing at the West Ocean City Park and Ride at 12848 Ocean Gateway in Ocean City by appointment only on Thursdays from 1-3:30 p.m. Testing dates are scheduled for Feb. 18 and Feb. 25. Additionally, Saturday hours for covid-19 testing have been expanded at Atlantic ImmediCare urgent care clinic on 10th Street. Individuals can now get a test between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturdays. No appointment is necessary. Weekday hours for walk-in testing continue to be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Because of high demand for testing, anyone planning to arrive after 2 p.m. during the week is asked to call ahead. The testing clinic can be reached at 410-289-0065. Rapid tests are available for patients experiencing two or more symptoms of the coronavirus. Exposure to someone with covid-19 is not a factor for rapid testing. If a patient does not meet the criteria to have a rapid test, they can still have the standard test. Turnaround time varies from 48 hours to five days. For more information, visit www.agh.care/COVID19. To track Maryland cases, visit coronavirus.maryland.gov/. Marylanders are also encouraged to sign up for additional updates by texting ‘MdReady’ to 898-211. To report a restaurant or bar for not following safety guidelines, call the county environmental health department at 410-352-3234.
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
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Ocean City Today
Legislative session focuses on coronavirus By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) The Maryland General Assembly 2021 legislation session continues to be defined by the coronavirus pandemic and the pursuit of economic relief. Gov. Larry Hogan’s $1 billion coronavirus emergency stimulus and tax relief package, known as Senate Bill 496, passed on Feb. 5. “Passing this emergency covid-19 relief and stimulus package now to assist struggling Maryland families and small businesses should be the top priority of every member of the Maryland General Assembly,” said Sen. Mary Beth Carozza (R-38), who co-sponsored the legislation. “I am completely committed to working with the governor and members of the legislature from both sides of the political aisle to fast-track this emergency legislation and move these needed funds to those who have been hardest hit by covid-19. Now that the Senate has unanimously approved the emergency covid-19 assistance package, I call on the House of Delegates to act now on this muchneeded relief so it can go into immediate effect.” Carozza also co-sponsored Senate Bill 1, which would financially benefit the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and other historically Black col-
leges and universities across the state. It passed on Feb. 5 as well. In addition, members of the Maryland Senate Republican Caucus presented a legislative package that stiffen election procedures. “We support and encourage every Marylander to exercise their right to vote, but before we consider expanding mail-in voting programs and making pandemicWayne Hartman year measures permanent through legislation, we must also put in the appropriate safeguards,” Carozza said. “Expanding voter access and protecting the integrity of our elections Mary Beth are intricately interCarozza twined and are not mutually exclusive issues.” The package includes legislation that would require voters to present identification at the polls, legislation against ballot harvesting, legislation to increase penalties for people convicted of voter fraud, voter intimidation, voter suppression and voter impersonation and legislation that creates more privacy and tracking for mail-in
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ballots. In addition to dealing with legislation, members of the General Assembly continue to follow covid-19-related restrictions on how constituents and advocates can interact with lawmakers during the session. Carozza met with pharmacy students from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore on Feb. 2. “One of my favorite days during session is student pharmacy advocacy day. Several students from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore outlined their legislative priorities of allowing pharmacists to administer injectable medications, which would especially help those living in rural communities,” Carozza said. “I look forward to visiting these students on campus in April for the groundbreaking of the new UMES Pharmacy and
Health Professions Building.” With the ongoing covid-19 pandemic, the Maryland General Assembly Student Page program is virtual for the 2021 legislative session. Last week, Eric Cropper, a senior at Stephen Decatur High School in Berlin, served as a Senate Page. As for the House of Delegates, Del. Wayne Hartman (R-38 C) co-sponsored House Bill 391 to prohibit celebratory balloon releases with Del. Regina Boyce (D-43), Del. Steven Arentz (R-36), Del. Jessica Feldmark (D12), Del. Ken Kerr (D-3B), Del. Mary Ann Lisanti (D-34A) and Del. Sara Love (D-16). “I spent a lot of time offshore fishing, and it’s not many trips you don’t go out there and see balloons or clusters of balloons floating,” Hartman See BALLOON Page 22
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FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
Balloon release ban passes through cmte. Continued from Page 21 said. “When I was on the City Council, there was a family in Ocean City, the Blume family, and they did a balloon round-up.” “The sheer number of balloons they collected in a short amount of time was just phenomenal to me,” Hartman added. The Blume family testified in a similar bill hearing during last year’s General Assembly. “We actually used their written testament and submitted it,” Hartman said. “Part of my presentation was information from their work last year.” He also said he would hear about sea creatures mistaking the balloons for food and dying from ingestion of them. House Bill 391 would establish a civil penalty of $250 for anyone 13 years or older that intentionally releases a balloon into the atmosphere and authorizes certain agencies to enforce the legislation. The bill hearing took place on Jan. 15 and passed through the House Environment and Transportation Committee on Feb. 5 with a 20-3 vote. The legislation has also been cross filed in the Senate. Currently, there is no statewide ban against releasing a balloon into the atmosphere. However, in August 2019,
Queen Anne’s County became the first county in Maryland to establish a ban on the intentional release of nonbiodegradable balloons. The ban in Queen Anne’s County took effect Oct. 1, 2019. Wicomico and Montgomery counties also recently passed similar bans. Wicomico County’s ban took effect Feb. 7, 2020, and Montgomery County’s ban took effect Dec. 30, 2020. Ocean City also prohibits the release of balloons as part of its ban on littering on public property. “Being the only delegate that represents Maryland’s coast, I feel it’s important that I continue to push the effort forward,” Hartman said. Hartman had a bill hearing this Wednesday for his concealed carry bill that would require the Secretary of the State Police to automatically grant to certain high-risk occupations a concealed carry permit unless they would be previously prohibited for some reason. “That bill was the request of some of my constituents in Wicomico County,” Hartman said in an interview on Monday. Hartman added that the Worcester County Commissioners voted last week to not support his Sunday hunting bill because of the inclusion of public lands. “[The Department of Natural Re-
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proving that they contracted an illness at the workplace and allowing employees the right to refuse work without verification. Additionally, Hartman said “there is no burden of proof” that the illness was contracted through work. “It would just put a burden on businesses that truly isn’t relative to something that even happened at work,” he said.
Accident cause still uncertain (Feb. 12, 2021) A Berlin man died in a traffic accident on Route 50 last Friday around 6:10 p.m. Troopers from the Berlin Barrack were call to the westbound side of Route 50 east of Friendship Rd. for a single-vehicle collision, and found James Eric Johnson, 62, trapped inside his overturned Chevy Tahoe. Berlin Fire Department was able to extricate from the vehicle, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. The westbound lanes of Route 50 were shut down for several hours because of the collision. The cause of the collision remains under investigation by Maryland State Police.
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sources] DNR created verbiage for legislation a year or two back, so public land doesn’t mean necessarily Pocomoke State Park,” Hartman said. “There’s wildlife management areas and in Worcester County, that’s the way it was described to me, is basically about 2,000 acres of swamp land.” He plans to meet with the commissioners to discuss amendments to the bill for their support. Lastly, Hartman said he opposes House Bill 581/Senate Bill 486, which would create new regulations and mandates on small businesses. “How can government dictate when a business has to pay additional money and so forth? I think government is interfering in too many private contracts and this to me is no different,” he said. “I think businesses know what they need to do at different times to attract and retain their employees, and I just think this bill goes too far. During a pandemic is certainly not a time for such legislation.” He is concerned about businesses closing because of the legislation’s requirements. Included in the 20-page legislation are requirements that would obligate employers to back-date an additional $3 per hour in hazard pay, establish a leave program without an employee
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FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
GREG ELLISON/OCEAN CITY TODAY
While still working to source potential grant funds to offset costs for property owners facing recurring flooding issues, the Ocean Pines Association opted against including $20,000 in the FY21/22 recommended budget for engineering studies on private lots.
OP pulls money for pilot drainage project for FY21 By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) Potential funding of $20,000 for a proposed pilot project to help offset Ocean Pines property owners’ out-of-pocket costs to address their own flooding problems has been removed from the recommended FY21/22 budget. The association had originally included $20,000 to pay back costs for engineering studies on private lots in the FY21/22 proposed budget but the allotment was deleted following a review by the Budget and Finance Committee last month. Director of Amenities and Operational Logistics Colby Phillips said General Manager John Viola and Public Works Director Eddie Wells have had discussions with more than a dozen homeowners whose properties flood frequently, sometimes leaving them with standing water for prolonged periods. In these instances, property owners would have to foot the bill to develop and deploy their own solutions. The association has sought to assist property owners cover the costs to complete projects to regain regular use of their yards and to reduce floodrelated property damage. In addition to getting help identifying potential grants from Maryland Coastal Bays Program officials, federal and state agencies are also being contacted.
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FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
Seacrets renews 49th Street lease with town of OC
GREG WEHNER/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Ocean City officials renewed a lease with Seacrets that allows staff at the popular spot to manage foot and vehicle traffic along 49th Street.
By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) A lease between Ocean City and Seacrets on 49th was approved by Ocean City Council members on Tuesday, allowing staff at the popular club to control and manage the sidewalk and street traffic along 49th street for $2,400. City Manager Doug Miller told the council that Ocean City owns a 250foot portion of 49th Street that also serves as an entrance road for Seacrets, and that an agreement has been made to lease that section to the restaurant and bar. “It’s a win for us because it makes alcohol violations easier to enforce, and it’s a win for them because they have an entrance to their facility,” Miller told the board. According to Miller, longtime City Solicitor Guy Ayers always emphasized that the agreement between Ocean City and Seacrets should be a year-to-year arrangement, and that the Police Commission was in favor of the renewal. “They think that it’s, again, a winwin situation, and the police commission is sending this to you with a favorable recommendation to renew the lease for the calendar year of 2021,” Miller said. Council members did not discuss the measure before the vote, which resulted in unanimous approval. The new lease will expire on Jan. 1, 2022.
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FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
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Custom built 12,000 sq ft (that's only $275 per sq ft!) 7BR/6Full BA/2 Half BA w/panoramic water views from almost every room! In gated community near the DE Seashore State Park on Indian River bay w/spectacular scenic views of the bay & Indian River Bridge. Great room w/wood burning fireplace. Panoramic deck. Kitchen w/wood cabinets, granite countertops, energy efficient appliances & Sub-Zero refrigerator/freezer. Blue tooth compatible surround $2,950,000 sound system. (DESU154270)
2BR/2BA & Den overlooking the Ocean in Premiere Oceanfront Building, The Plaza. Updated open kitchen w/HW cabinets, granite counters, glass tile backsplash & SS appliances. Laminate wood & marble tile floors throughout. Baths w/updated floors & cabinets. Direct oceanfront & open bay views . Truly a best buy. Great rental ncome over $25k/yr plus personal use too. Heated outdoor pool, kiddie pool & tiki bar/grill on half acre oceanfront deck. Year round indoor pool, hot tub and sauna plus Fabulous indoor Dining. Parking for 2 and private beach storage plus $569,000 on-site management, 24/7 security. (MDWO119112)
Waterfront 5BR/3.5BA in terns landing community on quiet cul-de-sac. Southern exposure with open bay views & deep water boat dock. Kitchen w/breakfast area & living room w/fireplace & cathedral ceilings. Additional family room overlooking the water. Ground floor master w/en suite. 2nd master suite w/balcony on 2nd level. 3rd level has massive gameroom area & 5th BR. Large yard can accommodate private pool. 2 jet ski lifts. Buyer may opt for $35-$40k s ummer rentals or cancel & move in! Don't miss this amazing location in the amenity filled Ocean Pines community with yacht club, $1,275,000 pools, beach club at 45th St in OC. (MDWO119934)
MARY MCCRACKEN Cell: 410-430-7302
MARY MCCRACKEN Cell: 410-430-7302
CHARLES RAPPA Cell: 610-405-9621
30 LESLIE MEWS OCEAN PINES
Join Our Team At Long & Foster Ocean City! Please call or email me for a confidential Conversation on joining our team:
Interested in a career in real estate? Classes forming now! Visit www.longandfoster.com/careers Stan Zaremba Branch Manager 410-520-2707 • Stan.Zaremba@LNF.com
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
PAGE 27
Ocean City Today
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Recognition
Nurse practitioner
Debbie Bennington, of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty Ocean Pines Office, has been named to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ esteemed Chairman’s Circle-Gold Level for 2020. The Chairman’s Circle-Gold Level is awarded to the top 2 percent of the company's network’s sales D. Bennington professionals and is a testament to Bennington’s dedication to her industry. Bennington entered the real estate industry in 2002 and joined Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty in 2011. She has been a consistent award winner of the President’s Circle and Chairman Gold Circle Award.
Atlantic General Hospital and Health System officials recently announced that a new family nurse practitioner has joined the health system’s Pocomoke primary care office to provide care alongside Dr. John Whittaker. Christina Hargis, DNP, earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse PractiChristina Hargis tioner certification from Salisbury University in May 2020. Prior to that, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Salisbury University. She is board certified in family medicine by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Hargis started her career in nursing at The University of Washington Med-
Chamber announces changes (Feb. 12, 2021) The Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce recently announced changes to its current staffing structure. Some of the familiar faces that chamber members have come to know over the years will be growing in their roles. Nancy Schwendeman has been named deputy director of the Greater Ocean City Chamber of Commerce. She will continue to oversee publications for the chamber in addition to taking on duties associated with the ical Center in Seattle, Washington, where she worked on the cardiothoracic surgical unit. In 2015, she joined the team at The Johns Hopkins Hospital on their Cardiovascular Progressive Care Unit. Upon her return to the Eastern Continued on Page 31
executive level business management of the organization. Debbie Haas will become marketing and outreach manager. Haas has worked Debbie Haas for the chamber in a part-time role over recent years. She will now oversee all social media management, management of a formalized RFP (request for proposal) process and coordination of N. Schwendeman chamber activities both virtual and in person. The experience and skill sets they bring with them in their new roles will offer the chamber membership even greater resources and an exceptional level of service.
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PAGE 28
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
Berlin Shows Love Friday - Monday February 12-15 You’ll feel the love as you stroll around a town with shop windows filled with hearts, showing support for all essential workers and visitors.
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Baked Goods • Crepes Handmade Chocolates All Your Favorite Coffee Beverages 103 N. Main St • Berlin 443-513-3198
ALL FALL & WINTER CLOTHING 27 N. MAIN STREET, BERLIN MD
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FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
PAGE 29
For Local Heroes Visit Historic Berlin
Valentines & Presidents’ Weekend LOTS OF SPECIAL OFFERS!
Look For Uncle Sam & Cupid Handing Out FREE Cash - while it lasts!
Please wear a mask 6 Feet Apart
Una Bella Salute
BEST TOY STORE!
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410-641-0601 HISTORIC BERLIN, MD
100 North Main St. | 410-641-2998 | VictorianCharm.info
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February 12-15 Mon. – Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Sun. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
PAGE 30
Ocean City Today
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS MEMBERS The Worcester County Commission for Women welcomes two new members – Worcester County State’s Attorney Kris Heiser, left, and Susan Childs, from the Town of Ocean City.
DONATION Helen Wiley, coordinator of the Church Mouse thrift shop in Berlin, makes a donation to Brandon O'Brien, executive director of the Hope4Recovery house in Berlin. The Church Mouse is an outreach ministry of St Paul's Episcopal Church that supports those in need. Hope4Recovery provides a safe, sober and structured living environment for men in recovery.
CPR DEVICE
SUPPORT Ocean City American Legion Post 166 donated $150,903 in 2020, primarily to local, regional and state organizations. Most of the funds came from earnings from the Post’s slot machines. Donations went to churches to help programs for the needy; charitable organizations; for boy and girl scout troops and projects; veteran’s groups; high schools; and for scholarships to high school and college students; as well as to first responders and paramedics, organizations classified as community caregivers, cultural and environmental organizations. Pictured is Post Commander Tom Wengert, left, and Donations Committee Chair Bo Spicer.
Worcester County Emergency Services utilized approximately $168,000 in CARES Act funds to purchase nine LUCAS hands-free mechanical CPR devices for nine volunteer fire companies operating in Worcester County and to reimburse another volunteer fire company for the cost of one unit purchased independently. During the County Commissioners’ Jan. 19 work session with Worcester County Volunteer Firemen’s Association representatives, WCES Director Billy Birch demonstrated the LUCAS unit’s ease of use with Services Planner Laraine Buck.
PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN PINES ASSOCIATION PHOTO COURTESY ROGER PACELLA
RECOGNITION Mel Jones accepts an award from Ocean City-Berlin Optimist Club President Bill Hickey in recognition of his long service on the organization’s board of directors.
HONORED James Brasure, left, was among the 10 Ocean Pines employees honored for their service time during a virtual ceremony in December. Brasure has been with the police department for 25 years. He is pictured with Chief Leo Ehrisman.
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
PAGE 31
Ocean City Today
BUSINESS BRIEFS Continued from Page 27 Shore, Hargis worked as an RN and case manager at Peninsula Regional’s wound center. During that time, she also provided care at a medication assisted treatment center for substance abuse. Hargis is currently accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment, call Atlantic General Primary Care in Pocomoke at 410-957-6622.
Chair elected Calvin B. Taylor Bankshares, Inc., parent company of Calvin B. Taylor Bank announced that its Board of Directors has elected Hale Harrison as chair. Harrison joined the company’s board of directors in October 1995 and the bank’s board in 1975. He owns and operates Harrison Group Resort Hotels in Hale Harrison Ocean City. Harrison is a former councilman and secretary for the Town of Ocean City, and former chairman of the Ocean City Planning and Zoning Commission. He is also a past chairman and member of the finance committee of the Board of Trustees of Atlantic General Hospital. In addition to serving as chair of the
board of directors of the company and the bank, Harrison is chair of the bank’s executive compensation committee and a member of its governance committee.
New role The Worcester County Commissioners named Michele Burke as the new business development and retention specialist within Worcester County Economic Development. In her new role, Burke will oversee the county’s business attraction, retention and expansion program and serve as its business ambassador to help existing busiMichele Burke ness owners and operators identify services and resources that support their goals. She will also be the primary liaison with local, state and federal partners, including the area chambers of commerce, Maryland Department of Commerce, Small Business Development Center, and the Small Business Association. For additional information about the programs and services available through WCED, contact Burke at mburke@co.worcester.md.us or visit https://chooseworcester.org.
REAL ESTATE REPORT
Tips to improve chances in challenging sellers’ market By Lauren Bunting Contributing Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) Lack of inventory, rising prices, multiple offers on new listings—all confirmation that we are indeed in a sellers’ market. Finding a home in today’s market is challenging for buyers, but there are ways to help improve your chances when the right house does come up. Preapproval vs. Prequalification: There are two levels in qualifying for a loan to make an offer on a house. When it’s a sellers’ market, it’s a good idea to ask your lender to take all of your information up-front so they can provide a full-fledged preapproval letter vs. the more initial prequalification letter. This can tell sellers that you are a safer bet because you’ve turned in all of your documentation needed for the loan process already. Multiple offers are very common right now. You have to be prepared to submit offers over the asking price and with terms that are more agreeable to the seller then to you, the buyer. Working with an experienced
agent that can guide you in this process is key, as there are many ways to help strengthen an offer. Some of the ways include removing contingencies, such as home inspections, or making inspections As-Is, which tell a seller that they will not be required to make any repairs. Increasing good faith deposits, shortening up the settlement timeframes and using price escalation clauses are all other ways to help buyers win in a multiple bid process. And, buyers, don’t despair: Dannielle Hale, chief economist for Realtor.com, put it in her recent 2021 forecast that: “The housing market in 2021 will be much more hospitable for buyers as an increased number of existing sellers and ramp-up in new construction restore some bargaining power for buyers, especially in the second half of the year.” – Lauren Bunting is an Associate Broker with Atlantic Shores Sotheby’s International Realty in Ocean City.
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PAGE 32
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
Hearts for Heroes campaign to honor frontline workers By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) The Berlin Chamber of Commerce launched a Hearts for Heroes campaign to honor local heroes such as healthcare workers, teachers, grocery store clerks, firefighters, police, EMTs, food service and retail workers. “When my wife and I owned Victorian Charm, we, of course, did a big promotion at Steve Frene the weekend of President’s Day and Valentine’s Day. They fall together,” said Steve Frene, deputy director of the chamber. “Typically, we’d see visitors come into the area. So, after we left Victorian Charm and I started working at the chamber, I wanted to do a promotion around that, where all the businesses could participate.” Frene was inspired to tie the holidays together for an event. “I thought about the heart representing our heroes and someone we love and support,” he said. “The other side of the weekend is, of course, President’s Day and you think about patriotism and … fire, police, doctors and the people that are out there putting it out on the line for
everybody every day during covid. I thought about a way to merge that would be a ‘Hearts for Heroes’ campaign.” Local businesses put heart decorations in their windows and around their workplace as a show of support from Valentines’ Day to Presidents Day, Friday through Monday. Red ribbons have been attached to lampposts downtown as well. Berlin Intermediate School students also provided colorful “heartwork” for businesses to use as decorations along with the official Hearts for Heroes poster. Frene is also taking some “heartwork” to the Atlantic General Hospital and the Berlin Police Department. In addition, businesses and restaurants will have special offers between Friday and Sunday to thank people for shopping locally. “We are not limiting the discounts and offers to just [essential workers],” Frene said. “We have taken it one step further and we say all customers are essential, and we want to show them love.” Pop’s Kitchen on Gay Street will offer a small cheese pizza (toppings are extra, a quart of soup and a garden salad for $20.95. The Treasure Chest at 20 N. Main St. will offer 20 to 50 percent off jewelry while Beach Memories at 106 N. Main
Berlin Police Chief Arnold Downing receives “heartwork” from students at Berlin Immediate School, thanking him for his service and leadership in the community, as part of the Hearts for Heroes campaign. PHOTO COURTESY STEVE FRENE
St. will give away free bracelets to the first 25 shoppers. Victorian Charm at 100 N. Main St. will give away cash with a $40 purchase, while Heart of Gold Kids at 27 N. Main St. will offer 50 percent off fall and winter apparel. Bruder Home on Main Street will have 50 percent off select items and Bruder Hill on Commerce Street will have large discounts and $15 sale racks. Patty Jean’s Boutique at 110 N. Main St. as well as East and Main Shore Supply and Apparel at 17 N. Main St. will have 20 percent off new arrivals and 70
percent off winter clothing. Beach Gypsy will also offer 25 percent off its Valentine’s Day collection and selfcare items this weekend. The Hearts for Heroes special is a free pink cheetah print tote with a $50 purchase. Additionally, Atlantic Hotel at 2 N. Main St. will offer food and drink specials, while Island Creamery at 120 N. Main St. will be open with birthday cakes, quarts, pints and bags of waffle cone chips to go. Frene has facilitated group advertising in Bayside Gazette and Ocean City See SHOPS Page 33
NOW PLAYING
SEAN LOOMIS The Globe: Wednesday, Feb. 17, 4-10 p.m.
KONO NATION DUO Seacrets: Friday, Feb. 12, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. & Saturday, 5-9 p.m.
BOURBON STREET ON THE BEACH 116th Street, Ocean City, behind Fountain Head Towers Condominium 443-664-2896 / www.bourbonstreetonthebeach.com Feb. 16: Randy Lee Ashcraft, Joe Smooth & Micky Michaeljon, 5-9 p.m. SEACRETS
OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS Seacrets: Thursday, Feb. 18, 5-9 p.m.
49th Street and the bay, Ocean City 410-524-4900 / www.seacrets.com Feb. 12: Deji & Derek from Shake Shake Shake, 5-9 p.m.; Kono Nation Duo, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Feb. 13: Kono Nation Duo, 5-9 p.m.; Cherry Crush Duo, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Feb. 14: Cherry Crush Duo, 5-9 p.m. Feb. 18: Opposite Directions, 5-9 p.m. THE GLOBE 12 Broad St., Berlin 410-641-1400 / www.globeberlin.com Feb. 12: Live Music TBA Feb. 13: Live Music TBA Feb. 15: Trivia with Bigler Feb. 16: Vinyl Night, 4-10 p.m. Feb. 17: Sean Loomis for Wing Night, 4-10 p.m. Feb. 18: Ladies Night w/Otto Grundman, 7-9 p.m.
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
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Ocean City Today
Shops offer weekend discounts Continued from Page 32 Today for the campaign to divide the expense. Burley Oak Brewing Company, Viking Tree, The Globe, Fathom, Beach Memories, The Treasure Chest, Bruder Hill, Bruder Home, Victorian Charm, Heart of Gold Kids, Una Bella Salute, Life’s Simple Pleasures, Patty Jean’s Boutique and Beach Gypsy contributed $50 for an advertising share. The Hearts for Heroes campaign is sponsored by the Bank of Ocean City,
First Shore Federal and Taylor Bank. Through the sponsorships, Cupid and Uncle Sam are able to hand out free money with a presidential trivia contest on Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. Frene said it will take place rain, snow or shine. Ivy Wells, the town’s economic and community development director, added that grab-and-go valentines will be available for children in the foyer of the Berlin Welcome Center at 14 S. Main St. this weekend.
OC CHOPSTICKS ASIAN BISTRO
offers a wide array of authentic Chinese, Japanese and Thai food for Dine In and Carryout
ALLY LANASA/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Church Mouse Thrift Shop at 101 N. Main St. in Berlin, participates in Hearts for Heroes by thanking first responders, educators, postal workers and other essential employees for their contributions during the pandemic.
Located at: 12741 Ocean Gateway • West Ocean City in the Outlets OC
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Decorative Valentine’s Day chocolate bark to celebrate By Deborah Lee Walker Contributing Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s touching words are spoken from the heart and symbolic of anyone who has been in love. But what is love? Can the recipient of love be an object? Does the degree of love differ case by case? The connotation for the word “love” has far exceeded the boundaries of original intention. I am sure Browning’s sonnets and poems would not encompass the craving crafted by today’s social media and mass marketing. I must confess, I also have been guilty of proclaiming my passion in an unduly fashion that goes beyond the realm of romanticism. I long for the euphoric rush that consumes my senses to a climatic degree. That being said, love is composed of many ingredients and each experience is relative. But there is one love affair we all
have in common. If you guessed food, you are correct. Food is our quintessential partner for life, whether we like it or not. There are those who eat to live and there are those who live to eat. I will not even begin to pretend which category I fall into. I am obsessed with food. All of my spare time is devoted to cooking, exploring new recipes and mastering the art of presentation. Whether one is a professional chef or someone who enjoys culinary wonders, acquiring knowledge is a must for true success. Chocolates and flowers sweeten the anticipated arrival of Valentine’s Day. As someone who is a chocoholic, I savor every moment the smooth luscious coating becomes one with my mortal soul. Working with chocolate can be intimidating, especially for non-professionals. Following are a few tips that will ensure this sinful delight is made to perfection. Believe it or not, but chocolate has an expiration date. Do not use chocolate that is more than two years old, as the See WALKER Page 34
Join Us For
Valentine’s Day Reservations recommended
DAily Specials Hours: Sun, Mon, wed, thurs: 11:30am - 9:30pm Fri & Sat: 11:30am - 10:30pm • Closed Tuesday
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Ocean City Today
PAGE 34
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Walker provides tips when working with chocolate Continued from Page 33 flavor will become flat. Proper storage of chocolate is imperative. If chocolate is improperly stored and exposed to a wide range of temperatures, the cocoa fat will separate from the rest of the chocolate, creating a dull grey coating and roughish texture. When working with chocolate, make sure all your surfaces, tools, bowls, spoons, measuring cups are completely dry. This is important because when water combines with melted chocolate, the chocolate will seize. A single drop of water can ruin a whole batch of melted chocolate. For chocolate doughs and cake batters, use cocoa powder instead of all-purpose flour to prevent them from sticking to the counter or their baking tins. Not only will the cocoa powder help prevent sticking, but it will also give your baked goods an extra hit of chocolate. Do not stir your melted chocolate with a metal spoon, the coldness might “shock” your chocolate and cause it to seize. Wooden or rubber spoons are the preferred choice. A candy thermometer is highly suggested when melting chocolate. Most recipes give very precise temperatures for melting and cooling the chocolate.
If you are trying to dip something in chocolate, but the chocolate is too thick to achieve a smooth finish, add a touch of vegetable or canola oil to thin it out. Valentine’s Day is here and significant others are eagerly anticipating a sweet treat accompanied with a bouquet of flowers. Decorative Valentine’s Day white and dark chocolate bark is a decadent way to show that special person how much you care. If one is pressed for time, consider using CandyQuik candy coatings instead of making chocolate from scratch. Chocolatiers may turn their head at the thought, but CandyQuik tastes great and takes very little time to prepare. Sprinkles, conversation hearts, Sweettarts, pretzels and edible glitter are just some of the festive decorations to help get the kids involved. Homemade desserts come from the heart and can make quite an impression. Decorative Valentine’s Day Chocolate bark is a mouthwatering way to say, “I love you.”
Decorative Valentine’s Day Chocolate Bark Ingredients
16 oz. vanilla CandiQuik 16 oz. chocolate CandiQuik assorted sprinkles conversation hearts Sweettarts Redhots pretzels small chocolate hearts Hershey’s kisses edible gold, red, and mother of pearl dust (glitter) 1. Heat both chocolates according to instructions. 2. Pour vanilla CandiQuik onto a small parchment rimmed baking sheet. Decorate according to personal preference. Have fun and get creative. Refrigerate until ready to serve. 3. Pour chocolate CandiQuik onto a
small parchment rimmed baking sheet. Decorate according to personal preference. This is a time where more is better. Refrigerate until ready to serve. 4. Alternate strips of chocolate and vanilla onto a small parchment rimmed baking sheet. Using a knife, make sweeping strokes across both flavors of CandiQuik so the chocolate and vanilla have a combined swirl effect. Again, think of yourself as an artist and have fun. Refrigerate until ready to serve. 5. Break pieces and artfully arrange on a plate lined with a doily, or place in a box lined with tissue paper. Secret Ingredient – Love. “Nobody has ever measured, even poets, how much a heart can hold.” – Zelda Fitzgerald
Closed on Tuesday. Dine-in and curbside pick-up. ■ MARLIN MOON Located in the Double Tree Hotel, 3301 Atlantic Ave., Ocean City 410-289-1201, www.marlinmoonocmd.com $$ Open Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.to 10 p.m. Restaurant and bar with fresh seafood, small plates, desserts and cocktails. ■ SEACRETS 49th Street, Ocean City 410-5244900, www.seacrets.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open Thursday and Friday, 4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. with Island atmosphere. Jamaican jerk chicken, appetizers, sandwiches, paninis, pizza and fresh seafood.
day through Sunday. Louisiana-style cooking with specials for Valentine’s Day and Fat Tuesday Specials. Featuring surf and turf, fantastic chicken dishes, seafood gumbo, fried catfish, jambalaya prime rib and many more. Champagne and desserts. ■ PRINCESS ROYALE OCEANFRONT RESORT 9100 Coastal Highway, Ocean City 443-856-2367, www.princessroyale.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Valentine’s dinner feature Cupcake Winery, four wines and three courses, $50 per person, reservations suggested. For more information call 1-800-944-6367 or visit www.princessroyale.com
Dining Guide ■ PRICE RANGE: $, $$, $$$ ■ RESERVATIONS: Reservations accepted —————————————
DOWNTOWN
South end to 28th Street
■ CAPTAIN’S TABLE 15th Street and Baltimore Avenue, inside The Courtyard by Marriott 410-289-7192, www. captainstableoc.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Breakfast and lunch served Saturday, Sunday and Monday, 8 a.m. to noon and dinner and lite fare served Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Featuring seafood, steaks and poultry. Daily chef specials.
MIDTOWN
29th to 90th streets
■ 32 PALM Located in The Hilton,32nd Street, Ocean City 410-289-2525, www.32palm.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Open daily, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bar and lounge. Western Caribbean cuisine with a mix of traditional Eastern Shore favorites.
■ THE DOUGH ROLLER 41st Street and Coastal Highway 410-524-9254; 70th Street and Coastal Highway 410-524-7981, www.TheDoughRoller.com An Ocean City family tradition since 1980. Offering breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. From our buttermilk pancakes, fresh handmade dough pizza, and Italian dinners, we have something for everyone! ■ JOHNNY’S PIZZA PUB 56th Street, Ocean City 410-7235600, www.johnnyspizzapub.com $ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Featuring homemade pizzas, 18 gourmet pizzas, a variety of calzones, subs, burgers, sandwiches and jumbo wings with 20 different sauces. Open everyday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Dine in, pickup, carryout and delivery. ■ LONGBOARD CAFÉ 6701 Coastal Hwy., Ocean City 443-664-5639, www.longboardcafe.net $$-$$$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Classic and creative American dishes and cocktails are showcased in a festive, surf-themed setting with weekly specials. Featuring burgers, tacos, prime rib, seafood and more.
UPTOWN
91st to 146th streets
■ BOURBON STREET ON THE BEACH 116th Street and Coastal Highway, Ocean City 443-664-2896, www.bourbonstreetonthebeach.com $$ | Kids’ menu | Full bar Opens at 3 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday and noon to 10 p.m., Fri-
OCEAN PINES ■ CLUBHOUSE BAR AND GRILLE 100 Clubhouse Drive, Ocean Pines 410-641-7222, oceanpinesgolf.org/dining $$ | Full bar With sweeping views of the 18th hole, the new Clubhouse Bar and Grille serves freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items. Full bar. Open Thursday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting.
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
SURF REPORT
‘Crummy surf’ in this area due to weather patterns By Dave Dalkiewicz Contributing Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) Crummy surf. It’s an issue that any surfer has to face, anywhere in the world, but all too often on the East Coast of the United States. Due to the predominant pattern of weather in the Northern Hemisphere and other particular features of our geography we are frequently dealing with this notion of crummy surf. So what to do? Some will move to another locale with better surf, regarding either quantity, quality or both. Some will quit altogether, but most will deal with it, hopefully being able to take occasional trips to better surf areas. There’s always been the idea that if one wants to improve or even maintain as a surfer he or she will go out in crummy conditions if only to be more ready when it does get good. Even a beginner will subscribe to this practice of going out in less-thanstellar conditions in a quest to become more proficient in learning how. One can argue that surfing in crummy conditions will sharpen one’s skills and have them be able to react to more nuances in sloppy, windblown, not-so-good surf that all too often we are subjected to. The best way to get better or at least maintain a decent level is to spend as much time as possible in the water. Sure, there are going to be surf specific, out-of-the-water exercises that one can employ. General physical fitness is always an overall good idea to live a quality life and it would naturally pertain to surfing. But it all comes together in the water, regardless of the conditions, crummy or perfect. It’s easier to surf in “perfect” conditions though even so one still has to paddle and have good wind and breath holding ability. Even equipment comes into play. Everything seems to work well in the best of conditions but some boards are better suited to slop and can even mitigate the “crummiest” of bad surf. Wetsuits, too, can become a factor. Generally, the colder the water and air the more wetsuit one will have to utilize. Hypothermia can become a serious problem and is best to be avoided. More and thicker wetsuit gear is going to demand better physical conditioning, once again making the argument to utilize the crummy surf that comes our way. SEE NO Page 36
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Ocean City Today
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COMMUNITY BRIEFS
Applications Berlin Rotary Club is accepting applications from seniors at Stephen Decatur High School and Worcester Technical High School, who are planning to attend college or trade school in the fall of 2021. Deadline for submitting an application is April 1. Students should contact their guidance counselor for an application. For more information, contact Nancy Bradford at nbradford@bankofoceancity.com.
Officers Worcester NAACP recently announced its officers for 2021. Berlin Council member Shaneka N. Nichols swore in the officers through a Zoom meeting held on Jan. 20. Branch officers are: President Ivory Smith, Secretary Linda Hilliard and Treasurer Christine Clark. Executive directors are: Rev. Jay Jones; Religious Affairs, Dr. Roxie Dennis Acholonu; Political Action, Catherine Freeman; Press & Publicity, Judy Harris-Davis; and Environmental & Climate Justice, Larry Ryan. Worcester County NAACP meets the third Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. Call 410-213-1956 for information.
Dean’s List Several Worcester County residents were among the 2,329 undergraduate students at Coastal Carolina University in Conway, South Carolina, named to the dean’s list for the fall 2020 semester. To qualify for the dean’s list students most have a grade point average between 3.5-3.99 for the fall semester. Among the students earning recognition are: Christopher Leitgeb, Communication major from Ocean City; Patrick Miller, a management major, from Ocean City; and Katherine Mitchell a Marine Science major from Berlin. Elsa Quillin from Berlin, was recently named to the dean’s list at the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia, for the fall 2020 semester. In order to achieve dean’s list status, a full-time degree seeking undergraduate student must take at least 12 credit hours and earn a 3.6 quality point average during the semester. Edward McDermott of Ocean City, a junior majoring in biology and government, has been named to the dean’s list at Hamilton College in Clinton, New York, for the 2020 fall semester. To earn a spot on the list, a student must have carried throughout
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
SURF REPORT the semester a course load of four or more graded credits with an average of 3.5 or above. Alexander Canakis of Bishopville and Caleb Mindte of Ocean Pines have been named to the University of Delaware dean’s list for the fall 2020 semester. To meet eligibility requirements for the dean’s list, a student must be enrolled full-time and earn a GPA of 3.5 or above (on a 4.0 scale) for the semester. Max Bisaha of Berlin, majoring in Political Science, and Molly McCormick of Berlin, a Psychology major, earn spots on the dean’s list at the College of Charleston in South Carolina. To quality for dean’s list, students must earn a GPA of 3.6 or higher and complete a minimum of 14 semester hours.
President’s List Eric Gwin of Berlin, was named to the fall 2020 president’s list at Hudson Valley Community College. Gwin is studying in the Non-matriculated program at the Troy, New York college. Each fall and spring term, the college’s president’s list names those full-time students and part-time students registered for at least six college credits who have a term average of between 3.5 and 4.0 for that term. Students must have completed at least 12 college credits successfully. Rachael Weidman and Maya Ziashakeri, both od Berlin, have been named to the president’s list at College of Charleston in South Carolina. Weidman is majoring in Psychology and Ziashakeri in Exercise Science. To qualify for president’s list, students must earn a GPA of 3.8 or higher and complete a minimum of 14 semester hours.
No substitute for spending time in water, writer says Continued from Page 35 So there it is. More than a notion or occasional idea, crummy surf will be a constant in a surfer’s life. In some areas, it is better left alone because better conditions will occur in a short amount of time. Unfortunately, we don’t have that luxury too often. There’s times when if one doesn’t go out in crummy surf they might not surf for a month or more. Trying to maintain a consistency and familiarity seems to be the best way to go. When all is said and done, there’s no substitute for spending time in the water, even in crummy surf. – Dave Dalkiewicz is the owner of Ocean Atlantic Surf Shop in Ocean City.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, an open discussion with a loved one yields positive results. Take what is said to heart and work on strengthening this relationship even further going forward.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, reassess your finances before making a big financial commitment. Start adding things up and comparing expenses to income before signing on any dotted lines.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, some time off spent entirely with family and friends is just what the doctor ordered. Cherish this time and appreciate the opportunity to enjoy it with those you love.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, some time alone may be necessary to figure out a problem. Once you can get free of distractions, the solution will present itself rather quickly.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, now is the time to begin planning an important project. Your mind is clear and you have the time, so embrace your creative side as you begin to hash things out.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Spiritual endeavors may take up much of your time this week, Virgo. Surround yourself with other spiritual people or examine your faith more deeply on your own.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, a change of scenery can be just what you need. A day trip to enjoy the great outdoors can prove refreshing and provide some new perspective.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, a new person in your life proves invigorating. Foster this relationship and be grateful for the opportunity to invite a new person into your life.
Elected The Rt. Rev. Richard W. Lipka of Salisbury has been elected Bishop Ordinary of The Missionary Diocese of All Saints. Lipka grew up in Wilmington, Delaware and attended Seminary in Rome, Italy, where he was ordained as a priest at the altar of St. Peter 54 years ago. He has served from Annapolis to Salisbury to Baltimore and to Hawaii. In August of 1995, he was consecrated as a Bishop. The MDAS is a non-geographical diocese of the Anglican Church in North America extending from Maine to California. The Office of the Bishop is located at Holy Trinity Cathedral, 11021 Worcester Hwy. in Berlin Bishop Lipka has appointed three
HOROSCOPE
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, a new hobby piques your interest. Introduce others to this activity and enjoy pursuing this newfound passion with someone you care about. Bishop Richard W. Lipka
Vicar Generals to help minister to the parishes within the Missionary Diocese of All Saints. The Eastern Convocation is headed up by Fr. Alan Andraeas; the Central Convocation by Fr. Terry Moore and the Western Convocation by The Rt. Rev. Michael Penfield. Sunday in-person, socially distanced services are at 10 a.m at Holy Trinity. For more information, contact Holy Trinity Cathedral, 410-641-4882 or Sara Lewis, 443-235-5675.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 It is alright if it seems like you’re a beat behind everyone else this week, Capricorn. You will catch up soon enough and others are more than capable of picking up the slack.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 An attraction to someone you meet this week catches you off guard, Aquarius. Forge ahead and explore these feelings if your situation allows.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Offer support to a friend in need, Pisces. This generous offer will be much-appreciated and you will reap the rewards as well.
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
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OP Garden Club mulling details for springtime events By Greg Ellison Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) After adapting to largely online communications for coronavirus considerations last year, the Ocean Pines Garden Club is hoping to stage activities this spring following whatever safety restrictions remain in place. Garden Club President Patti Lookner said after the group halted inSee OCEAN Page 38
PHOTO COURTESY OCEAN PINES GARDEN CLUB
While unable to hold its annual Arbor Day memorial tree-planting ceremony at Pintail Park in 2020, the Ocean Pines Garden Club is hoping to stage the event this year, although likely with less attendees than in the crowd pictured from 2019.
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FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean Pines Garden Club thrives with limits Continued from Page 37 person meetings due to the pandemic an email alternative was quickly launched to keep members in touch. “We started a monthly newsletter [The Bloomin’ News] in May,” she said. Later last year the group reconvened monthly meetings via zoom. “We meet the second Thursday of the month,” she said. Lookner said the club appointed 2021 officers during its most recent virtual gathering last month, along with a “gardening trivia game.” Although cementing details remains challenging the club continues to forge ahead with a slate of events on tap, in some fashion, through June. “We’re scheduling bit by bit because we’re watching the restrictions,” she said. “It’s all a wait and see.” Principal on the list is the annual Arbor Day memorial tree-planting ceremony, at Pintail Park. “We usually have the ceremony followed by a luncheon [but] last year it was completely canceled,” she said. “This year we’re hoping we can have the outdoor ceremony.” In an odd twist, after staging the Arbor Day dedication ceremony for roughly the past two decades, and earning a PLANT Award from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources last April, the Garden Club was forced to cancel the event in 2020. The Arbor Day ceremony, which is typically held on the second Thursday in April, has been produced in conjunction with Kelly Romanowski from Ocean Pines Public Works.
Lookner said the Arbor Day planting is done in memory of people who are either Ocean Pines residents or family of … residents who have passed away the year prior. “We do one planting of a tree, bush or large plant for the whole group,” she said. In light of cancelling the event last year, the goal is to combine the prior list of departed loved ones with more recent entries. “They announce each name, ring a bell and give a flower to the family member there,” she said. “They each come up and put a shovel full of dirt on the plant.” The following month the Garden Club will continue a more recent tradition. Patti Lookner “A couple of years ago we started having Mothers’ Day floral arrangements at the [Ocean Pines] Farmers Market,” she said. “A group of us get together and make arrangements the night before.” Lookner said production procedures would be adapted accordingly this year, in much the same spirit as the group’s traditional Christmas undertaking. “We do the Christmas decorations for the Pines,” she said. “We were determined we would get decorations up this year.” While both floral-focused creative endeavors normally involve a wealth of club members gathering at the Ocean Pines Community Center gym, pan-
demic considerations have shifted the majority of participants to produce at home. “Usually we all meet at the gym but we had to change this year, with some at home and a smaller number in the gym,” she said. Lookner said for the time being the club would continue virtual monthly meetings with the potential to shift outdoors as warm weather returns dependent upon coronavirus restrictions. “We’ll just do what we can,” she said. With upcoming meetings delving
into a variety of topics with varied presenters including Ocean Pines drainage issues, native plants and floral arrangements, Lookner encourages anyone whose interest is piqued to make contact. “We have the whole realm out there from ‘I don’t know what to do’ to ‘master gardeners’ in the group,” she said. “You learn from one another … (and) the speakers that come.” For more information or to join the Ocean Pines Garden Club, email Garden Club President Patti Lookner at plookner@gmail.com.
CROSSWORD
Worcester County Library provides check-out laptops (Feb. 12, 2021) Beginning this month, Worcester County Library will offer laptops that patrons can check out and take home. At a time when so many activities require the use of a computer, this initiative will put useful tools into the hands of library users who need them most. “These laptops will be a lifeline for the people who need to access email, complete homework, and apply for jobs,” said Library Director Jennifer
Ranck. “They will also allow them to attend virtual classes and event job interviews conducted remotely.” The laptops do not include internet access, but patrons can also check out one of the library’s Kajeet Hotspots if they need to get online. A total 17 Dell Latitude laptops are available to check out for 30 days each. They can be reserved through the library’s online catalog, or by calling any library branch. Visit worcesterlibrary.org for more information.
Answers on page 16
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
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Ocean City Today
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., Feb. 12 BERLIN’S “HEARTS FOR HEROES”
Berlin is hosting this event (Feb. 12-15) in recognition of modern-day heroes, such as healthcare workers, fire, police, EMTs, teachers, retail, grocery and food workers, to name a few. Berlin businesses will be decorating their windows and workplaces with colorful hearts to show support to these heroes as well as offering specials to their customers. The public is welcome to post photos of their own heroes on the Berlin Chamber Facebook page to be eligible to win a Berlin Gift Basket. chamberinfo@berlinchamber.org, 410-641-4775
Sat., Feb. 13 BERLIN’S “HEARTS FOR HEROES”
Berlin is hosting this event (Feb. 12-15) in recognition of modern-day heroes, such as healthcare workers, fire, police, EMTs, teachers, retail, grocery and food workers, to name a few. Berlin businesses will be decorating their windows and workplaces with colorful hearts to show support to these heroes as well as offering specials to their customers. The public is welcome to post photos of their own heroes on the Berlin Chamber Facebook page to be eligible to win a Berlin Gift Basket. chamberinfo@berlinchamber.org, 410-641-4775
GRAB N GO VALENTINES FOR KIDS
Visit the Berlin Welcome Center vestibule for a free grab n go valentine for kids. The vestibule is open 24/7 and is full of information about Berlin and surrounding areas.
HOMEBUYERS SEMINAR
Ocean Pines Community Center, 239 Ocean Parkway, 10:00 AM. Presented by Jessica Gresczyk from Engel & Volkers Real Estate and Esther Lakernick from First Choice Lending. Mask required. Register: 410-5204555.
OPEN SKATE
Worcester County Recreation Center, 6030 Public Landing Road, 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Cost is $2 per person for all skaters and skate observers. Price includes skate rental, 45 minutes of skate time and reserves your time slot. Time slots available each hour on the hour and are limited to 15 people. Participants must call ahead: 410-632-2144. Allen Swiger, aswiger@marylandscoast.org, 410-632-2144, Ext. 2520
FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
Saturdays - White Horse Park, 239 Ocean
Parkway, 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Shop for everything from fresh local produce to unique handmade artisan goods. Open to the public.
Sun., Feb. 14 BERLIN’S “HEARTS FOR HEROES”
Berlin is hosting this event (Feb. 12-15) in recognition of modern-day heroes, such as healthcare workers, fire, police, EMTs, teachers, retail, grocery and food workers, to name a few. Berlin businesses will be decorating their windows and workplaces with colorful hearts to show support to these heroes as well as offering specials to their customers. The public is welcome to post photos of their own heroes on the Berlin Chamber Facebook page to be eligible to win a Berlin Gift Basket. chamberinfo@berlinchamber.org, 410-641-4775
OPEN SKATE
Worcester County Recreation Center, 6030 Public Landing Road, 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Cost is $2 per person for all skaters and skate observers. Price includes skate rental, 45 minutes of skate time and reserves your time slot. Time slots available each hour on the hour and are limited to 15 people. Participants must call ahead: 410-632-2144. Allen Swiger, aswiger@marylandscoast.org, 410-632-2144, Ext. 2520
Mon., Feb. 15 BERLIN’S “HEARTS FOR HEROES”
Berlin is hosting this event (Feb. 12-15) in recognition of modern-day heroes, such as healthcare workers, fire, police, EMTs, teachers, retail, grocery and food workers, to name a few. Berlin businesses will be decorating their windows and workplaces with colorful hearts to show support to these heroes as well as offering specials to their customers. The public is welcome to post photos of their own heroes on the Berlin Chamber Facebook page to be eligible to win a Berlin Gift Basket. chamberinfo@berlinchamber.org, 410-641-4775
PM. Dial 605-472-5789, wait for voice command, then press 944874. TOPS is a weekly support and educational group promoting weight loss and healthy lifestyle. Berlin group No. 169. Rose Campion, 410-6410157
Tues., Feb. 16 OPEN SKATE
Worcester County Recreation Center, 6030 Public Landing Road, 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Cost is $2 per person for all skaters and skate observers. Price includes skate rental, 45 minutes of skate time and reserves your time slot. Time slots available each hour on the hour and are limited to 15 people. Participants must call ahead: 410-632-2144. Allen Swiger, aswiger@marylandscoast.org, 410-632-2144, Ext. 2520
Meeting via Facebook, 3:30 PM. President Lincoln answers questions about his boyhood, his favorite books, the Civil War and some difficult decisions he had to make during this presidency. Hear him deliver the Gettysburg Address. For ages 8 years and older. No registration required.
TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY MEETING
Meeting via conference call, 6:00 PM - 6:30
VIRTUAL STORY TIME WITH THE TOOTH FAIRY
The Tooth Fairy will read several books and give advice for how to keep those teeth clean, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM. This event is free. Families are asked to register online at https://tinyurl.com/yyqp5y37. A Spanish interpretation will take place Feb. 19 from 3:30-4:30 p.m. To register for the Spanish version, visit https://tinyurl.com/y2mokh78. Allen Swiger, aswiger@marylandscoast.org, 410632-2144, Ext. 2520
HARRIET TUBMAN AND HARRIET BEECHER STOWE
Meeting via Zoom, 7:00 PM. Dr. Richard Bell will be discussing Harret Tubman and Harriet Beecher Stowe and their contributions to history. Register: worcesterlibrary.org under events.
RETIREMENT SUCCESS CLASSES
The virtual webinars will take place in three parts, Feb. 16, 23 and March 2, 2:00 PM 3:00 PM. The first class is titled, “Retirement Success/Planning.” This is a detailed retirement planning seminar designed to educate those who are nearing retirement or who have recently retired. Register: https://worcesterlibrary.org.
DOC AND TALK
Meeting via Zoom, 2:00 PM. Watch John Lewis: Good Trouble and join the discussion. This documentary give an account of his life from a teenager helping with the civil rights movement to his adult life as a U.S. representative. Can be viewed on Hoopla (hoopladigital.com). Register: worcesterlibrary.org under events.
RETIREMENT BOOTCAMP: SUCCESS/PLANNING
Meeting via Zoom, 2:00 PM. This presentation covers some basic but powerful fundamentals about retirement and the factors that can positively or negatively affect someone over their retirement. Register: worcesterlibrary.org under events.
Wed., Feb. 17 ZOOM WITH YOUR BABY
Meeting via Zoom, 10:30 AM. Babies under 2 years old and their caregivers are welcome of join in for songs, rhymes and stories. Optional: have a scarf and rattle/shaker handy for interactive rhymes. Register: www.worcesterlibrary.org under events.
GENEALOGY WORKSHOP AN INTERVIEW WITH PRESIDENT LINCOLN
www.worcesterlibrary.org under events.
Meeting via Zoom, 11:00 AM. The workshop starts with a 20-minute lesson on genealogy research by Tom Dempsey followed by a question and answer session. Register: worcesterlibrary.org under events.
ZOOM PICTIONARY
Meeting via Zoom, 3:30 PM. Take turns drawing people, places and things. Try to be the first to guess what others have drawn. For ages 11 years and older. Register:
Thurs., Feb. 18 CPAP MASK FITTING
Atlantic General Hospital Sleep Disorders Diagnostic Center, 9733 Healthway Drive. Free mask fitting clinic for patients who are having trouble adjusting to their CPAP equipment. By appointment only: Robin Rohlfing, 410-641-9726.
OPEN SKATE
Worcester County Recreation Center, 6030 Public Landing Road, 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Cost is $2 per person for all skaters and skate observers. Price includes skate rental, 45 minutes of skate time and reserves your time slot. Time slots available each hour on the hour and are limited to 15 people. Participants must call ahead: 410-632-2144. Allen Swiger, aswiger@marylandscoast.org, 410-632-2144, Ext. 2520
ZUMBA FOR BEGINNERS
Meeting via Zoom, 2:00 PM. These classes uplift and improve mood. This is a webinar style program, meaning you can practice your moves without being seen. Register: worcesterlibrary.org.
NAACP BACK HISTORY MONTH MEETING
Meeting via Zoom, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM. Featuring guest speaker Don Victor Mooney. Mooney was the first human to solo row from the coast of West Africa to Brooklyn, New York and the first African American to row across any ocean. He did this to bring additional attention towards the global AIDS crisis. Mooney is currently the President of H.R. 1242 Resilience Program. For the Zoom link login go to the Worcester County NAACP Facebook page or email ivos4@aol.com.
TEEN DISCORD HANGOUT
Held via Discord, 7:00 PM. The library’s Discord server is a moderated, virtual hangout space for teens, ages 13-18 years, to connect and chat with other teens. Register: https://worcesterlibrary.libguides.com/discord.
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February 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
Call 410-723-6397 Classifieds appear in Ocean City Today & Bayside Gazette each week and online at oceancitytoday.com & baysideoc.com
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
NOW HIRING Year-round Positions: • PM Line Cook Inquire within at 32 Palm at Hilton Suites 3200 Baltimore Ave Ocean City, MD
Hiring ALL Positions!! Full time & Part time To apply go to: www.mygcjob.com
HELP WANTED TOW TRUCK DRIVER We have openings for Tow Truck Drivers for the Bethany/Ocean Pines areas. Must be experienced and dependable. Great Pay & Benefits. Call - 302-344-9846
Paramount Construction Services is seeking experienced professionals to join our organization in Ocean City MD. Applicants should have several years of experience with knowledge of kitchen and bathroom remodeling for residential homes and condominiums. Paramount is currently looking for Project Managers, cabinet installers, tile setters, painters / drywall, electricians and plumbers. Please call 443-664-7689 or send resume to ocjobs@paramountserv.com
NOW HIRING Year round restaurant AM Cook/Prep/Receiving Clerk. Competitive wages & benefits. Send resume or contact info Coralreef@ harrisongp.com
Sunset Island Ocean City, MD Sunset Island is accepting resumes for a
AUTOMOTIVE MARYLAND STATE INSPECTOR Now hiring for an inspector for our Ocean Pines location. Exc. pay and benefits. Please call 302-344-9846
Clubhouse Facility Manager Full Time Seasonal Position. Personnel Management experience is required. The job would require management of a seasonal staff of 15 people, and oversight of contractors and scheduling. Weekends and Holidays are mandatory. Excellent people skills a must! Job Type: Full-time Salary: based on experience Linda.horensavitz@casinc.biz fax 410 520 0398
Cleaners Needed For Property Manager
Retiree for Part-time Job Flexible hours. Janitorial Services Wonderful place to work. Contact Gene Brewis with Harbour Island 410-251-1423
Ocean Pines & W. OC Areas We have a busy rental department. We are looking for some additional cleaners for weekly vacation rentals for the 2021 Season. q References Required q W-9 q Certificate of Liability Insurance q Must work weekends and some weekdays as needed q ID Required for all of your cleaning staff If you are interested, please contact us by email
Hileman Real Estate, Inc. hilemanre@aol.com, Attn: Chris
NOW HIRING
AWESOME PEOPLE!
*Interviews begin February 13th - March, Apply Saturdays & Sundays 11am-2pm Holding Open Interviews For:
• Servers• Bus Staff •Host/Hostess •Kitchen Staff •Security Come by and join our 2021 Family! 54th Street, OCMD (Behind Chauncey’s Surf Shop) 410-723-5565
by Monday 5 p.m.
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
NOW HIRING FT, YR Maintenance & FT Front Desk Clerk (Evening Shift). Apply within Comfort Suites, 12718 Ocean Gateway (Rte. 50) Ocean City, MD (WOC).
Responsible and Reliable Person Needed Part-Time for Disabled, Pleasant Senior. Knowledge of hoyer lift helpful. Availability is for 9-15 hours a week, 3-4 hour shifts, 3-4 hours morning or early evening and possible fill-in. Fenwick Island. Contact: 571-243-3398.
MAINTENANCE F/T, Y/R, 32-40 hrs./week. Dependable. Handyman w/good skills. Must have transportation/tools. Send resume to fred@paradiseoc.com.
AUTOMOTIVE POSITIONS We have openings for Service Advisors and Technicians. We have locations in the Millsboro, Bethany and Ocean City areas. We offer Great Pay & Benefits. Please call: 302-344-9846
HIRING ALL POSITIONS!! Full time & Part time Stop by our location on 52nd street! or call 443-664-2825 Busy Ocean City Real Estate Office Hiring a Part Time Bookkeeper. Knowledge of Quickbooks, Google Sheets, Excel and willing to learn to track numbers in various apps. Please email your resume to Kristy@RyanHaley.com
NOW HIRING!! Production Crew for our WOC kitchen facility Up to $17.50/hr. Apply online at: www.delmarvadd.com
Town of Ocean City, Maryland What are you doing this Summer? Be a part of our team! Drive the beach bus! Paid CDL Training is available. Applicants must be 20 years of age and have an acceptable driving record. Apply electronically at oceancitymd.gov
www.baysideoc.com www.oceancitytoday.com
RENTALS RENTALS Summer Seasonal Rental $10,500, 2BR/2BA, central A/C, kitchen, washer/dryer. Bayside off 28th St. on Lark Lane. Occ 6. Resort Rentals, 410-524-0295.
WEEKLY RENTALS AVAILABLE NOW Pool Front Room ...$215/wk Efficiency..............$245/wk Family Room ........$265/wk 2BR Apartment.....$350/wk Burgundy Inn 1210 Philadelphia Ave. 410-289-8581
Yearly & Seasonal Rentals We Welcome Pets 7700 Coastal Hwy 410-524-7700 www.holidayoc.com
COMMERCIAL ASSISTANT PM MANAGER Immediate Opening Harrison Group is currently seeking an Experienced Manager to join our team. Great career opportunity with excellent benefits Inquire at 32 Palm at Hilton Suites 3200 Baltimore Ave Ocean City, MD
Become a Better You in 2021! To Order Product Call Christine 443-880-8397 or email: snowhillavon@ comcast.net To Become an Avon Representative Sign Up at www. ChristinesBeautyShop.com
Ocean City, MD
Restaurant for Lease 203 seat restaurant located on landmark corner & prime hotel row. 5,730 sq ft newly renovated building, plenty of parking, upgraded HVAC, full liquor license, plenty of walk-ins & freezer space. Ideal for crab house, Mexican, BBQ, sports bar, or Ale House concept.
Contact Mark Mayers @ 410-289-4444 mayers@harrisongp.com
www.oceancitytoday.com Order YOur Classifieds Online!
• • • •
Convenient Quick No Waiting, No Calls Days, Nights & Weekends
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
RENTALS
DONATIONS
ESTATE SALE
Seeking Year-Round & Seasonal Rentals! Call Howard Martin Realty 410-352-5555
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.
Friday, Feb. 12 & Saturday, Feb. 13. 9am-till. Household furnishing, clothing and Kitchenware. Cash and carry. Please wear a mask. 438 Ocean Parkway, Unit 53, Ocean Pines 21811.
RAMBLER MOTEL 9942 Elm Street, WOC (Behind Starbucks) Sleeps 4, $250 per week Manager onsite 410-213-1764
SERVICES
BUDGET MOVERS COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL 1 Office/Retail Space & 1 Warehouse Unit available in West Ocean City. Call 443-497-4200
1096 Sq. Ft. Former Beauty Salon For Rent Starting Feb. 1. Trader Lee’s Village Corner of 611 and Route 50, West OC. This location has more than 8 million cars per year going by on Rt. 50 & 611. For more information call Bob Jester, 410-430-4480
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Ocean City Today
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Ocean City Today
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PAGE 44
TRUSTEE’S SALE OF CONDOMINIUM UNIT
The Trustee named below will sell at public auction to the highest bidder on Monday, March 1, 2021, at 4:00 p.m., at the front door of Bluewater East Condominium, 13400 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD, all that property designated as Bluewater East Condominium Unit No. AS-205, together with an undivided interest in the common elements as established by Declaration and Bylaws recorded among the land records of Worcester County in Liber FWH No. 440, folio 656, et seq., as amended, and as further described in a deed recorded at Liber 6402, folio 455, et seq., in “AS IS” condition, SUBJECT to all the liens, covenants, agreements, conditions, easements and restrictions as may appear among the land records of Worcester County, Maryland. A deposit of $15,000.00 in cash or certified check will be required of the Purchaser at the auction. (A deposit will not be required if the successful bidder is the secured party in this foreclosure action.) The balance in cash or cashier’s or certified check shall be paid within 20 days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court for Worcester County, said balance to bear interest at the rate of ten percent (10%) per annum from the date of sale to the date of payment. Time is of the essence for the Purchaser. All real estate taxes, wastewater, water charges, and condominium assessments shall be adjusted as of the date of sale and assumed thereafter by the Purchaser. All settlement costs, including recordation taxes, transfer taxes and recording fees, shall be paid by the Purchaser. Possession will be given upon payment in full of the purchase price. If Purchaser fails to pay the balance of the purchase price when due, the deposit shall be forfeited and the property resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting Purchaser. For further information, you may contact Ryan D. Bodley, Trustee, 410723-1400. OCD-2/11/3t _________________________________ JOSEPH E. MOORE CHRISTOPHER T. WOODLEY ASSIGNEES WILLIAMS, MOORE, SHOCKLEY & HARRISON, L.L.P. 3509 Coastal Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21842
ASSIGNEES’ SALE OF VALUABLE IMPROVED COMMERCIAL PROPERTY HAVING AN ADDRESS OF 10307 RACETRACK ROAD, BERLIN, MD 21811
Under and by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in a certain Mortgage, dated November 30, 2005, and recorded among the Land Records of Worcester County, Maryland, in Liber S.V.H. No. 4595, folio 210, et seq., the Assignees have been assigned by instrument duly recorded among the Land Records as afore-
Ocean City Today / Public Notices said for purposes of foreclosure, default having occurred under the terms thereof and at the request of the party secured thereby, the undersigned Assignees will sell at public auction, to be held at: THE FRONT DOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE CIRCUIT COURT FOR WORCESTER COUNTY 1 WEST MARKET STREET SNOW HILL, MARYLAND 21863 ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021 AT 1:30 P.M. Those two (2) contiguous parcels of land lying and being situate on the westerly side of Racetrack Road, containing in their entirety 2.67 of land, more or less, according to a 1942 survey, and designated as Tax Map 21, Parcel 110, and also designated as 10307 Racetrack Road, Berlin, MD 21811, the said parcels being more particularly described in the aforesaid Mortgage. TERMS OF SALE: A deposit of $20,000.00 will be required of the purchaser at the time of sale. The deposit shall be in the form of cash, certified or cashier’s check at the time and place of sale, or other form of security, at the sole discretion of the Assignees; the balance to be secured to the satisfaction of the Assignees and represented by a Promissory Note, conditioned upon the conveyance of good and marketable title. The balance in cash will be due at settlement which shall be within ten (10) days after final ratification of sale by the Circuit Court of Worcester County unless said period is extended by the Assignees, their successors or assigns for good cause shown, time being of the essence. Interest at the rate set forth in the Mortgage Note shall be paid on unpaid purchase money from date of sale to date of settlement. There will be no abatement of interest due from the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. Time is of the essence for the Purchaser. The property will be sold subject to all conditions, liens, restrictions, and agreements of record affecting same, if any. Taxes, water charges, sanitary commission charges, assessments and liens or encumbrances for sewer, water, drainage, or other public improvements completed or commenced on or prior to the date of sale or subsequent thereto, if any, are to be adjusted and apportioned as of the date of sale and are to be assumed and paid thereafter by purchaser, whether assessments have been levied or not as of date of settlement. Cost of all documentary stamps, transfer taxes, document preparation and title insurance shall be borne by the purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. If Purchaser fails to pay the balance of the purchase price following ratification of the sale, the deposit shall be forfeited and the property resold at the risk and cost of the defaulting purchaser. If the Assignees are unable to convey good and marketable title to the property, the purchaser’s
sole remedy at law or in equity shall be limited to the refund of the deposit to the purchaser. Upon refund of the deposit, this sale shall be void and of no effect, and the purchaser shall have no further claim against the Assignees. The improvements are being sold in an “AS IS” condition, with no warranties expressed or implied, with Purchaser responsible for any and all housing or zoning code violations. BIDDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO FOLLOW CDC GUIDANCE AND WEAR A COVER OVER BOTH NOSE AND MOUTH AND PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING AT THE AUCTION. The Assignees reserve the right to reject any and all bids in their sole discretion. For information, please contact the undersigned at (410) 289-3553. Joseph E. Moore, Assignee Christopher T. Woodley, Assignee 3509 Coastal Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21842 Marshall Auction Company Doug Marshall, Auctioneer 410.749.8092 OCD-2/11/3t _________________________________ BWW Law Group, LLC 6003 Executive Blvd., Suite 101 Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 961-6555
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEES' SALE
OF REAL PROPERTY AND ANY IMPROVEMENTS THEREON 6118 SOUTH POINT RD.; SEVEN ST. AND BOAT DOCK B BERLIN, MD 21811 Under a power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust dated January 5, 2011, recorded in Liber 5612, Folio 61 among the Land Records of Worcester County, MD, with an original principal balance of $402,955.00, default having occurred under the terms thereof, the Sub. Trustees will sell at public auction at the Circuit Court for Worcester County, at the Court House Door, One W. Market St., Snow Hill, MD 21863, on MARCH 2, 2021 AT 3:30 PM ALL THAT FEE SIMPLE LOT OF GROUND, together with any buildings or improvements thereon located in Worcester County, MD and described as follows: ITEM ONE: All that lot or parcel of land lying and being situate on the easterly side of Stephen Decatur Memorial Road, also known as South Point Road, in the Section called Lower Sinepuxent Neck, in the Tenth Election District of Worcester County, Maryland, and more particualrly described as Lot One (1) on a plat entitled "Bay Shores", made by Edward H. Richardson Associates, Inc., dated September 14, 1971, and recorded among the Worcester County Land Records in Plat Record F.W.H. No. 19, folios 32, et seq.; and being a part of all and the same property acquired by the grantors herein from Edward H. Valentine and Joan A.
FEBRUARY 12, 2021 Valentine, by deed dated November 20, 1998, and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Liber R.H.O. No. 2609, folios 286 et seq. ITEM TWO: An undivided one-fifth of Grantor's three-fourths interest in all that property lying and being situate in the Tenth Election District of Worcester County, Maryland, designated and distinguished as Item II on the plat entitled "Plat of Survey showing Item I and Item II of Hoyt Peck Estate, South Point, Tenth Election District, Worcester County, Maryland", dated September 12, 1986, revised July 3, 1987, made by L.E. Bunting Surveys, Inc. and recorded in the Plat Records of Worcester County, Maryland, in Plat Book 112, page 62; said property having been acquired by the grantors herein from Edward H. Valentine and Joan A. Valentine in Item One of deed dated November 20, 1998 and recorded among the aforesaid Land Records in Liber R.H.O. No. 2609, folios 286 et seq. ITEM THREE: And the grantors herein do hereby grant unto said grantees the use of Boat Slip B, which is appurtenant to property described in Item Two hereof, same having beed assigned to grantors herein by Boat Slip Assignment and Agreement re Maintenance between the grantors and the owners of the other one-fourth interest in Item Two. TOGETHER with all buildings and improvements thereon, and the rights, roads, ways, waters, privelages, and appurtenances thereto belonging or in anywise appertaining. Tax ID #10-021855, #10-021979 & #10-391202. The property, and any improvements thereon, will be sold in an "as is" condition and subject to conditions, restrictions and agreements of record affecting the same, if any, and with no warranty of any kind. Terms of Sale: A deposit of $27,000 in the form of certified check, cashier's check or money order will be required of the purchaser at time and place of sale. Balance of the purchase price, together with interest on the unpaid purchase money at the current rate contained in the Deed of Trust Note from the date of sale to the date funds are received by the Sub. Trustees, payable in cash within ten days of final ratification of the sale by the Circuit Court. There will be no abatement of interest due from the purchaser in the event additional funds are tendered before settlement. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE FOR THE PURCHASER. Adjustment of all real property taxes, including agricultural taxes, if applicable, and any and all public and/or private charges or assessments, to the extent such amounts survive foreclosure sale, including water/sewer, ground rent and front foot benefit charges, to be adjusted to date of sale and thereafter assumed by purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for any recapture of homestead tax credit. All transfer taxes and recordation taxes shall be paid by Purchaser. The purchaser shall be responsible for the payment of the ground rent escrow, if required. Condominium fees and/or homeowners association dues, if any, shall be assumed by the
FEBRUARY 12, 2021 purchaser from the date of sale. Purchaser is responsible for obtaining physical possession of the property, and assumes risk of loss or damage to the property from the date of sale. The sale is subject to post-sale audit of the status of the loan with the loan servicer including, but not limited to, determination of whether the borrower entered into any repayment agreement, reinstated or paid off the loan prior to the sale. In any such event, this sale shall be null and void, and the Purchaser's sole remedy, in law or equity, shall be the return of the deposit without interest. If purchaser fails to settle within ten days of ratification, subject to order of court, purchaser agrees that property will be resold and entire deposit retained by Sub. Trustees as liquidated damages for all losses occasioned by the purchaser's default and purchaser shall have no further liability. The defaulted purchaser shall not be entitled to any surplus proceeds resulting from said resale even if such surplus results from improvements to the property by said defaulted purchaser. Sub. Trustees will convey either marketable or insurable title. If they cannot deliver one or the other, or if ratification of the sale is denied by the Circuit Court for any reason, the Purchaser's sole remedy, at law or equity, is return of the deposit without interest. BIDDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO FOLLOW CDC GUIDANCE AND WEAR A COVER OVER BOTH NOSE AND MOUTH AND PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING AT THE AUCTION. (Matter No. 157308-1) PLEASE CONSULT WWW.ALEXCOOPER.COM FOR STATUS OF UPCOMING SALES Howard N. Bierman, Carrie M. Ward, et. al., Substitute Trustees ALEX COOPER AUCTS, INC. 908 YORK RD., TOWSON, MD 21204 410-828-4838 www.alexcooper.com OCD-2/11/3t _________________________________ Christopher T. Woodley, Esq. Williams, Moore, Shockley & Harrison, Esq. 3509 Coastal Highway Ocean City, MD 21842
NOTICE
TO CREDITORS OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE NO. 18574 Notice is given that the Chancery Court of Sussex County, DE appointed Yvonne E. Kauffman, 36250 Sunflower Boulevard, Selbyville, DE 19975 as the Personal Representative of the Estate of Dorothy M. Kauffman who died on September 25, 2020 domiciled in Delaware, America. The Maryland resident agent for service of process is Christopher T. Woodley whose address is 3509 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, MD 21842. At the time of death, the decedent owned real or leasehold property in the following Maryland counties: Worcester County.
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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 beginning February 11, 2021 or to have it otherwise disposed of in a manner provided by law. Line No 1041-20 1326-20 1344-20
Year 2003 2004 2007
Make NISSAN NISSAN MINI
Model 350Z MURANO COOPER
Color BLUE SILVER BLUE
Style 2D SUV 2D
VIN JN1AZ34E03T016402 JN8AZ08W64W324225 WMWMF735X7TL83757
Mileage 139644 N/A 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-2/11/3t ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ All persons having claims against the decedent must file their claims with the Register of Wills for Worcester County with a copy to the foreign personal representative on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the foreign personal representative mails or delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Claims filed after that date or after a date extended by law will be barred. Yvonne E. Kauffman Foreign Personal Representative Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of Newspaper: Ocean City Digest Date of first publication: January 28, 2021 OCD-1/28/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for an Upgrade in Type of license from Beer-Wine to BeerWine-Liquor and a Request to expand licensed premises for a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Lisa Pennacchia Shott, 1104 Edgewater Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842; Andrew Emmett Gmitter, 36142 Richland Road, Willards, Maryland 21874. For: AG & MS, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Shotti's Point 3505 Coastal Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21842
There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: February 17, 2021 @ 1:00 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-2/4/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Request to add a carryout window, add a rooftop seating area and a Request to alter the licensed premises for a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Steve D. Hoffman, 2706 Philadelphia Avenue. Ocean City, Maryland 21842; Michael J. Horsey, 2706 Philadelphia Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842. For: Double H Holdings lnc. For the premises known as and located at: T/A: 28th Street Pit and Pub 2706 Philadelphia Avenue Ocean City, Maryland 21842 There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: February 17, 2021 @ 1:20 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-2/4/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Request to maintain the temporary outdoor seating area permanently and to add a walk up/service carryout bar for a Class: "B" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Kevin C. Myers, 5801 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, Mary-
land 21842. For: OC Bar, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Bad Monkey 5801 Coastal Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21842 There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: February 17, 2021 @ 1:35 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-2/4/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Class: "B" BEERWINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Scott Anderson Savage, 12009 Turtle Mill Road, Bishopville, Maryland 21813. For: Bandits Bar, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Bandits Bar 806 South Atlantic Avenue Ocean City, Maryland 21842 There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: February 17, 2021 @ 1:50 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-2/4/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Request to expand the licensed premises to include an elevated deck, Request for speakers outside on the elevated deck, Request for Trifvia and Bingo
PAGE 46
Ocean City Today / Public Notices
games two days per week, Request to allow a digital juke box and Request to modify the licensed property by installing a garage style door for a Class: "D" BEER-WINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Peter J. Laviola, 13207 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, Maryland 21842; Raymond J. McGrath, 13207 Coastal Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21842; Deborah A. McGrath,13207 Coastal Highway, Ocean City, Maryland 21842. For: Beach Barrels, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Beach Barrels 13207 Coastal Highway Ocean City, Maryland 21842 There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: February 17, 2021 @ 2:10 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-2/4/2t _________________________________
NOTICE
OF APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE Application has been made by the Undersigned for a Transfer and an Upgrade from a Class "B" restaurant license to a Class "D" bar license and a Request to modify the licensed property to an open air bar, Request for outside Live Entertainment stage and Request for outside Live Entertainment seven days per week amplified with eight pieces until midnight for a Class: "D" BEERWINE-LIQUOR License: 7 Day, By: Cole J. Taustin, 10647 Griffin Road Berlin, Maryland 21811. For: Mad Fish, LLC For the premises known as and located at: T/A: Pier 23 12817 South Harbor Road Ocean City, Maryland 21842 Formerly: Mad Fish, Inc. There will be a public hearing on the application in the Board Room, Room 1102 in the Government Center, Snow Hill, Maryland, on: February 17, 2021 @ 2:25 P.M. The Board welcomes written or oral comment at said public hearing from any interested party. OCD-2/4/2t _________________________________ IN THE ORPHANS’ COURT FOR (OR) BEFORE THE REGISTER OF WILLS FOR WORCESTER COUNTY, MARYLAND IN THE ESTATE OF: MAURICE E. COLLICK ESTATE NO. 18528
NOTICE
OF JUDICIAL PROBATE To all Persons Interested in the above estate: You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed by Francis X. Borgerding, Jr., 409 Washington Avenue, Suite 600, Towson, MD 21204 for judicial probate appointment of the will and for the appointment of a personal representative. A hearing
will be held at One W. Market Street, Court Room 4, Court House, Snow Hill, MD 21863 on 03/16/2021 at 10:00 a.m. This hearing may be transferred or postponed to a subsequent time. Further information may be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills. Terri Westcott Register of Wills One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Phone: (410) 632-1529 Newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Publication Date: 02/04/2021 OCD-2/4/2t _________________________________
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Personal Protective Equipment Worcester County, Maryland The County Commissioners of Worcester County Maryland are currently accepting bids for 50,000 units of 3M 1860 masks, 50,000 units Level 3 isolation gowns, and 1,800 boxes nitrile examination gloves. Bid specification packages and bid forms are available from the Office of the County Commissioners, Worcester County Government Center, One West Market Street - Room 1103, Snow Hill, Maryland 21863, obtained online at www.co.worcester.md.us or by calling the Commissioners’ Office at 410-632-1194 to request a package by mail. Sealed bids will be accepted until 1:00 p.m. EST, Monday February 22, 2021 in the Office of the County Commissioners, at the above address, at which time they will be opened and publicly read aloud. Envelopes shall be marked “PPE” in the lower lefthand corner. After opening, bids will be reviewed and a recommendation prepared for the County Commissioners for their consideration at a future meeting. In awarding the bid, the Commissioners reserve the right to reject any and all bids, waive formalities, informalities and technicalities therein, and to take whatever bid they determine to be in the best interest of the County considering lowest or best bid, quality of goods and work, time of delivery or completion, responsibility of bidders being considered, previous experience of bidders with County contracts, or any other factors they deem appropriate. All inquiries shall be directed to James E. Hamilton, Jr., at 410632-3080 or at jhamilton@co.worcester.md.us. Email correspondence is encouraged. OCD-2/11/2t _________________________________ STEVEN W. RAKOW ESQ 5700 COASTAL HIGHWAY SUITE 305 OCEAN CITY, MD 21842
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18595 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF BARRY GUSTAV FALKENSTEIN
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS TOWN OF OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89858559 316 Or iPhone one-tap: +13017158592, 89858559316# US (Washington DC) +13126266799, 89858559316# US (Chicago) Or join by phone: Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 876 9923 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799 or +1 408 638 0968 or +1 669 900 6833 Webinar ID: 898 5855 9316 International numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kekt JHsKaU February 25, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(2), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-94(2)(b) requesting a special parking exception to waive 7 parking spaces to construct a 962 square foot tiki garden bar area for outdoor dining. The entire site of the appeal is described as Lots 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 for Building 1 and Lots 19, 20, 21, 22, and 23 for Building 2, Block 87 of the Fenwick Plat; further described as located on the west side of Coastal Highway between 132nd and 133rd Street, encompassing street addresses of 13201-13209 Coastal Highway, and known locally as Beach Barrels, 13207 Coastal Highway, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: RAYMOND MCGRATH (BEACH BARRELS LLC) – (BZA 2581 #21-09400003) 6:10 P.M. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-93(3), Powers, of the Code, an appeal has been filed pursuant to the provisions of Section 110-95(1)(a) requesting a variance to the eastern side yard setback (common element) to allow construction of a 5’ wide deck to the property line adjacent to applicant’s unit (#1). The site of the appeal is described as Lots 1-5, Block 33 of the Oceanbay City Plat; further described as located on the north side of 65th Street immediately west of the beach, and locally known as 6501 Atlantic Avenue, Unit 1, Colonial Village Townhouses, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: JOSEPH E. MOORE, ESQ., ATTY FOR GREGORY & CYNTHIA SPALDING – (BZA 2582 #21-09500004) Further information concerning the public hearings may be examined in the office of the Department of Planning and Community Development in City Hall. Alfred Harrison, Chairman Maureen Howarth, Attorney OCD-2/11/2t _________________________________
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 virtually via Zoom Webinar: Join from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device: Please click this URL to join.
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18590 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CHARLES N. KRUEGER Notice is given that Richard W. Krueger, 3802 Easton Court, Abingdon, MD 21009, was on January 29, 2021 appointed Personal Represen-
Notice is given that Donna Falkenstein Bradley, 1033 Springhouse Drive, Ambler, PA 19002, was on February 03, 2021 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barry Gustav Falkenstein who died on January 12, 2021, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 3rd day of August, 2021. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Donna Falkenstein Bradley Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: February 11, 2021 OCD-2/11/3t _________________________________
NOTICE
NOTICE
FEBRUARY 12, 2021 tative of the estate of Charles N. Krueger who died on January 29, 2021, with a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney. All persons having any objection to the appointment (or to the probate of the decedent’s will) shall file their objections with the Register of Wills on or before the 29th day of July, 2021. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Richard W. Krueger Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: February 11, 2021 OCD-2/11/3t _________________________________ SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18576 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JAMES RUSSELL SLOCUM Notice is given that Fredrick Joseph Belowsky, 10750 Saint Martins Neck, Bishopville, MD 21813, was on January 28, 2021 appointed personal representative of the small estate of James Russell Slocum who died on September 24, 2020, 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
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Ocean City Today / Public Notices
NOTICE
The Mayor and City Council, a public community transit service provider in Ocean City, Maryland, is offering the opportunity for a public hearing to provide citizens a forum to present views on the following proposals: FY 2022 Annual Transportation Plan (ATP). The ATP contains requests for operating funds from the following programs: Section 5311 of the Federal Transit Act, which provides funds for general public transit service in rural areas; Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) program, which provides funds for federally required para transit services for persons with disabilities. In addition, capital funds will be requested for the following items: ITEM One (1) Year Preventative Maintenance for Rolling Stock including Repairs, Parts and Labor Three (3) Heavy Duty 60’ Articulating Buses Twenty-Two (22) Heavy Duty 40’ Bus Replacements Four (4) ADA Accessible Transit Supervisor Support Vehicles Transportation Development Plan Study TOTAL
TOTAL $785,000 $2,400,000 $10,727,464 $260,000 $100,000 $14,272,464
A Public Hearing will be held upon request. Requests for a Public Hearing must be in writing and will be received until 4 p.m. on Friday, March 5, 2021. Requests for a Public Hearing and/or other written comments should be sent to the following address and clearly marked “Public Hearing Comments”: Ocean City Transportation 204 65th Street, Building E Ocean City, Maryland 21842 Written comments can also be emailed to: Mark D. Rickards at mdrickards@oceancitymd.gov If requested, a Public Hearing will be held: Monday, March 15, 2021 6:00 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers 301 North Baltimore Avenue Ocean City, Maryland 21842 If special assistance is required at the Public Hearing contact Ocean City Transportation, Administrative Coordinator, at 410-723-2174 prior to 4 p.m. Friday, March 5, 2021. OCD-2/11/5t ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ months after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Fredrick Joseph Belowsky 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: February 11, 2021 OCD-2/11/1t _________________________________ SMALL ESTATE
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS ESTATE NO. 18586 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF KATHERINE ELEANOR BLOSSOM Notice is given that Mary Blossom Springle, 3291 Blackbeard Road, Greenbackville, VA 23356, was on January 28, 2021 appointed personal representative of the small estate of Katherine Eleanor Blossom who died on November 12, 2020, without a will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the personal representative or the attorney.
All persons having any objection to the appointment shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within 30 days after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having an objection to the probate of the will shall file their objections with the Register of Wills within six months after the date of publication of this Notice. All persons having claims against the decedent must serve their claims on the undersigned personal representative or file them with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Thirty days after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claim within thirty days from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. Any claim not served or filed within that time, or any extension provided by law, is un-
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Ocean City Today / Public Notices
enforceable thereafter. Mary Blossom Springle 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: February 11, 2021 OCD-2/11/1t _________________________________
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 110, Zoning, of the Code of the Town of Ocean City, Maryland, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be conducted by the Planning and Zoning Commission in the Council Chambers of City Hall virtually via Zoom Meeting on: TUESDAY, MARCH 2, 2021 At 7:00 pm Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83683836 760 Or iPhone one-tap : US: +13017158592,,83683836760# or +13126266799,,83683836760#
Or Telephone: Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 876 9923 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799 or +1 408 638 0968 or +1 669 900 6833 Webinar ID: 836 8383 6760 International numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbs3B2 DYY9 Pursuant to the provisions of Article II, Section 5, Conditional Uses, a request has been filed under the provisions of Section 110-514(22), Uses permitted by Conditional Use in the LC-1, Local Commercial, Zoning District, that the Mayor and City Council may approve a use not specifically named in these regulations, provided, however, that such use shall be in keeping with uses specifically permitted in the LC-1 district, to permit a 15 vehicle storage lot on the northwest corner of the property. Since this property is split-zoned and the western portion is zoned BMUD, Bayside Mixed Use, Zoning District, the request is also in accordance with Section 110-574. The site of the request is described as Lot 10, southerly half of Lot 11, Block 94; a portion of Lots 2 and 3, Block 93; a portion of Philadelphia Avenue and half of 16’ alley, Sinepuxent Beach Company Plat; and further described as located on the west side of Philadelphia Avenue, and known locally as 3105 Philadelphia Avenue, in the Town of Ocean City, Maryland. APPLICANT: ELIAS ZACHAROPOULOS, NOREASTER, LLC (FILE #21-12100001) No oral or written testimony will be accepted after the close of the public hearing.
LEGAL ADVERTISING 410-723-6397 legals@oceancitytoday.net
Public hearings that are not completed at one meeting may be continued without additional advertised notice provided the Commission Chairperson announces that the hearing will be continued and gives persons in attendance an opportunity to sign up for written notice of the additional hearing dates. For further information concerning this public hearing, please contact the Department of Planning and Community Development, Room 242, City Hall, 301 Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, MD 21842. Phone 410-289-8855. PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION PAM GREER BUCKLEY, CHAIRPERSON WILLIAM E. ESHAM, III, ATTORNEY OCD-2/11/2t _________________________________ DENNIS A. BAIRD, ESQ LAW OFFICES DENNIS A. BAIRD, ESQ., P.C. 1323 FENWICK LANE, SUITE 100 SLIVER SPRING, MD 20910
NOTICE
OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Estate No. 18584 TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CLYDE SMITH POWELL JR Notice is given that Douglas Powell, 5632 Singletree Drive, Frederick, MD 21703, was on February 08, 2021 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Clyde Smith Powell Jr who died on October 17, 2017, 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 represen-
FEBRUARY 12, 2021 tative 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 August, 2021. Any person having a claim against the decedent must present the claim to the undersigned personal representative or file it with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or before the earlier of the following dates: (1) Six months from the date of the decedent’s death, except if the decedent died before October 1, 1992, nine months from the date of the decedent’s death; or (2) Two months after the personal representative mails or otherwise delivers to the creditor a copy of this published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the creditor presents the claims within two months from the mailing or other delivery of the notice. A claim not presented or filed on or before that date, or any extension provided by law, is unenforceable thereafter. Claim forms may be obtained from the Register of Wills. Douglas Powell Personal Representative True Test Copy Terri Westcott Register of Wills for Worcester County One W. Market Street Room 102 - Court House Snow Hill, MD 21863-1074 Name of newspaper designated by personal representative: Ocean City Digest Date of publication: February 11, 2021 OCD-2/11/3t _________________________________
Commentary
Ocean City Today Feb. 12, 2021
Page 49
Tourism toolkit important to all An idea whose time came some years ago is getting serious attention now, with the development of the tourism toolkit by local governments and their agencies, along with business organizations tied to the visitor economy. As simple as it might sound to some, getting a single, cohesive and clear message out in extreme circumstances is a difficult task, considering that the responding agency can answer only so many inquiries at a time. Add to that the flood of information that pours into these message centers during challenging times and it can be overwhelming for those who have to answer the questions, while they also have to sort through the influx of reports to determine which are factual and which are not. As we’re in the information-gathering business, we know how tough it can be. But the difference is news organizations like ours have numerous people who can be assigned to handle different aspects of a critical situation. Ocean City government, for instance, does not have that luxury. It’s a smaller division that nevertheless has a huge audience that it must satisfy. That’s why the tourism toolkit, which aims to coordinate the flow of vital information between the authorities and the public when the times demand it, is so important. Major storms, flooding, outbreaks of criminal behavior, along with more mundane events like broken water mains, road blockages, and issues involving health and safety are just some of the things that can lead to public confusion. As we all know, the worst thing that can happen is to have the public depend on speculation and information of questionable veracity. The city’s current staff, as small as it is, does an excellent job. But it needs help and there’s no better way to do that than to create an organization that’s built like a wheel, with a hub supported by spokes that both feed information into the center and disseminate it to the public when the facts are available. As frequent clients of these informational services ourselves, we’ll do whatever we can to help make the toolkit work.
Ocean City Today P.O. Box 3500, Ocean City, Md. 21843 Phone: 410-723-6397 / Fax: 410-723-6511.
EDITOR ............................................ Stewart Dobson MANAGING EDITOR ................................ Lisa Capitelli STAFF WRITERS ....................Greg Ellison, Ally Lanasa, ..........................................Neely James, Greg Wehner ASSISTANT PUBLISHER .......................... Elaine Brady ACCOUNT MANAGERS.......... Mary Cooper, Vicki Shrier CLASSIFIEDS/LEGALS MANAGER .... Nancy MacCubbin SENIOR DESIGNER ................................ Susan Parks GRAPHIC ARTIST .................................... Kelly Brown PUBLISHER........................................ Christine Brown ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT ...................... Gini Tufts Ocean City Today is published weekly by FLAG Publications, Inc. at 8200 Coastal Highway, 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 2021
PUBLIC EYE
What’s your beef?
As fond as I am of eating whatever’s available, with the exception of mushrooms, feta cheese, green bean casserole, tofu and anything with a shell that you might see dragging itself across my sidewalk (no matter what it’s called in French), I have my limits. This would include the newest marvel of modern technology — 3D printed ribeye steak. As food production goes, it’s the equivalent of a moon By shot, except that it’s a moo Stewart shot, I suppose. I’m not kidding. Just this Dobson week the Israeli company, Aleph Farms, revealed that it has actually used a 3D printer to produce a rib-eye from a liquidy solution of cow cells. At least, I assume it’s a liquidy solution of meat molecules, as I can’t imagine any other way the printer could squirt out the requisite layers of gristle-free, perfectly marbled whatever ready for grilling. According to the company, its scientists are able to grow steak material, if you will, in the lab from cells extracted from an actual animal. That means, of course, there will be a herd of black angus cattle wandering somewhere missing a bunch of little meat divots, courtesy of, I guess, a cow poker.
READ THE
So say goodbye to grass-fed beef at your supermarket counter, and hello to glass-fed beef. I can see it now, lab coat-wearing scientists sitting around the campfire at night, eating beans and biscuits, and singing Gene Autry songs while guarding the beakers of beef from rustlers. As would be expected, proponents of this approach contend that printing your rib-less rib-eye is a much more humane way of meeting the consumer demand for red meat than sending hapless herds of Herefords to the House of No Return. What they fail to recognize, of course, are the millions of little cow cells, looking up at that 3D printer with the little cow cell eyes and going, “NOOOooooooo!” Still, I’m less inclined to think of the final product as prime rib when it’s fashioned from something that’s more ooze than moos. I also suspect there may be a marketing problem with the latter, considering that “Half-price Slime Rib Night” just doesn’t sound that attractive. On the other hand, if this approach catches on, there might be a point in the future where we’ll be able to slip over to Staples, go to the HP printer section and order dinner. There, amongst the RGB cartridges and CMYK cartridges will be the one for beef lovers who know the lyrics of the 1930s song, “I’m An Old Cowhand.” That would be the Yippee Ki Yay cartridge.
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FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
Letters to the editor Ponders a reset for government
Editor, Let me begin with the start of our Republic form of government. It basically started with just three branches of government. They were the Legislative, Executive and the Judicial. I'm sure you who have studied our history realize that it was a unique form of government in that it was different from all other forms of governments at the time of its inception. What was very special about it was that it was a government of, by and for the people. That's all part of the legislative past however, through the past 232 years the government has grown. Presently, not counting the military, there are 14 departments that are active. They are the department of State, Treasury, Justice, Interior, Agriculture, Commerce, Labor, Health & Human Services, Housing & Urban Development, Transportation, Energy, Education, Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security. Do any of you have any idea of what the estimated number of people and cost of these departments is? Not counting the military, the approximate number of employees are
1,276,000 at an approximate cost of a little over $2 trillion annually. If you want to add into this the estimated number of military personal of 2.86 million at an added estimated cost of $722 billion, plus as of 2019 and the approximate number of people presently receiving Social Security of a little over 45 million, the amount our government is responsible for is well over $3 trillion annually. You realize of course the chief way our government gets its money is through taxes. We the people pay 45 percent of this tax through personal income tax, 39 percent is through Social Security and Medicare tax, 12 percent through corporate income tax, 3 percent through other taxes and 1 percent through estate & gift taxes. You should also realize that the money the government gets through taxes pays the salaries of all those presently working for the government and those who have worked for the government and are now retired. Also, those on Social Security receive their payments by collected funds deducted from personal workers’ salaries. Do you understand now why the debt of our government is almost $28 trillion and counting and that they haven't placed themselves on a budget for over 20 years? I think it's time we the people de-
WORLD WAR II
Gen. Rommel descends on Africa, tagged ‘Desert Fox’ By Peter Ayers Wimbrow III Contributing Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) Eighty years ago today, German Gen. Erwin Rommel arrived in the Libyan capital of Tripoli. Before his departure from the North African shore, he would earn the sobriquet “The Desert Fox,” and the admiration of friend and foe alike. His nemesis, at El Alamein, British Gen. Bernard Law Montgomery, kept an oil portrait of him in his headquarters. His name inspired fear in his enemies and adulation from his German and Italian soldiers. In explaining the North African situation to the House of Commons, British Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill said in November 1941, “We have a very daring and skillful opponent against us, and, may I say across the havoc of war, a great general.” Later when the prime minister was mand a change in the size and number of departments in our government. Also term limits and what they get after serving might be a good starting point. Just a thought folks, think about it. Paul St. Andre Ocean City
visiting Cairo, the thought of that great general would keep him up at night as he would repeat, “Rommel, Rommel, Rommel, Rommel! What else matters but beating him?!” Others say that extolling Rommel excused British deficiencies in leadership. Libya had become an Italian colony in 1912, after Italy’s brief war with the Ottoman Turkish Empire. At the time, it was actually three colonies. Tripolitania, of which Tripoli was the capital, occupied the northwestern portion of Libya. It bordered Tunisia on its west, and Cyrenaica, of which Benghazi was the capital, on its east. Cyrenaica shared its eastern border with Egypt. Both Cyrenaica and Tripolitania bordered the south shore of the Mediterranean Sea. South of Tripolitania lay Fezzan, with its southern border on the French colony of Chad. The capital of Fezzan is Subha, which today has a population of 100,000+/-. It is where former Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddaffi was raised and educated. The three provinces were combined into one colony, with its capital at Tripoli, in 1934. By royal decree, issued on Jan. 9, 1939, Libya was incorporated into Italy, making it a part of the Continued on Page 51
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Ocean City Today
WORLD WAR II Continued from Page 50 empire. Now, it was more than just a colony. In early December, at a meeting of the Axis Supreme Command in Innsbruck, Marshal Graziani expressed the Italian Duce’s wish to go it alone in Africa. Therefore, the plans to transfer a German armored brigade and an air corps were canceled. Within two weeks, the Italian perspective had changed, as they were quickly driven out of Egypt and Cyrenaica, with Benghazi lost and Tripoli threatened. Now, the Italian Duce had to ask his German ally for help. On Jan. 9, 1941, the German Führer ordered, “... a blocking force ...”to be sent. Meanwhile, Marshal Graziani ordered his Italian soldiers to fortify Tripoli against the anticipated Commonwealth assault. All the while, the German high command was busy preparing offenses against Yugoslavia, Greece, and the Soviet Union. Hitler, on Feb. 6, ordered that the blocking line was to be as far east as possible. On the same day, orders were given to commence the transportation of German forces to Tripoli. Now that, that decision had been made, these forces needed a commander. The German Führer selected Erwin Rommel, who would, technically, be subordinate to the top Italian commander in Libya. The day before Rommel’s arrival, the first German troops had also arrived in Tripoli. They were not combat soldiers, but rather were specialists in administration and logistics, and were there to prepare the area for the arrival of the men who would do the fighting. First came the 3rd Motorized Reconnaissance Battalion and the 39th Anti-Tank Battalion. In March, artillery and armored vehicles arrived. These first units, commanded by Johannes Streich, would constitute the 5th Light Division, which would be a part of the famed Deutsches Afrikakorps — DAK. Later in the spring, the Light Division would be joined by the 15th Panzerdivision, commanded by Gustav von Vaerst. Rommel had been commander of the Führer’s escort regiment during the Polish campaign and had, during the Battle of France commanded the 7th Armored Division, which had advanced so quickly that it earned the soubriquet of “Ghost Division,” because no one knew its location! In Rommel, the German leader had picked the perfect man for the task ahead. There was never any doubt about Rommel’s bravery. He had won the coveted Pour le Mérite (“The Blue Max”) in WWI fighting against the Italians. The Pour le Mérite was, at that time, Germany’s highest award for bravery. He never let his Italian allies forget that it was won fighting against them. And, as Commander of the “Ghost Division,” he led from the front, something he would continue in North Africa. The events which brought these
Germans to the North African shore was the destruction of the Italian Tenth Army, coupled with the consequent conquest of Cyrenaica and much of Tripolitania by Commonwealth forces. Hitler realized that if he didn’t do something, his Italian ally would fall. It was also determined to send units of the Luftwaffe. On Feb. 9, 1941, the Italian Duce accepted Rommel as commander of the mobile forces and replaced Marshal Graziani with Gen. Italo Gariboldi, previously commander of the Fifth Army. The German general flew to Rome two days later for a conference with Mussolini, after which he flew to Sicily and conferred with the commander of the Luftwaffe’s X Air Corps, commanded by Hans Geisler. The following day, Gen. Rommel arrived in Africa. Not only would he have command of the 5th Light and 15th Panzer Divisions, but also the Italian Armored Division Ariete, commanded by Ettore Baldassarre. In the spring the motorized infantry division Trento, commanded by Luigi Nuvoloni arrived. Both generals would later be promoted to corps commanders. The Ariete had received the newest Italian tanks and some training with the Germans. In addition, there were several infantry divisions which would be put at the German general’s disposal — Brescia, Pavia and Bologna, commanded by Gens. Giuseppe Cremascoli, Pietro Zaglio and Carlo Gotti. Unbeknownst to the Axis, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill had intervened to cut the Commonwealth’s advance short. He ordered that two of the best divisions — 6th Australian Infantry and 7th Armoured — be transferred to Greece, where they would be wasted. The new commander, wasting little time in establishing his reputation, sent 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, on Feb. 16, 280 miles east along the Via Balbia to a position east of Sirte. Sirte is located on the Gulf of Sirte, and today has a population of 128,000. However, at the time, it was described as, “. . . a shabby little Arab village of mud huts, clustered on the banks of a foul-smelling stream.” It was in one of those mud huts that Muammar Gaddafi was born in 1942, seven miles south of Sirte. On Feb. 19, Axis patrols drove off British reconnaissance units near En Nofalia, 70 miles east of Sirte. It was the first, of many, clashes between the Italo-German and Commonwealth forces. Next week: German Battleship Tirpitz Mr. Wimbrow writes from Ocean City, Maryland, where he practices law representing those persons accused of criminal and traffic offenses, and those persons who have suffered a personal injury through no fault of their own. can be contacted at wimbrowlaw@gmail.com.
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Ocean City Today
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Students return to schools, teachers receive vaccines By Ally Lanasa Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) Nearly 80 percent of Worcester County Public Schools students have returned to partial inperson instruction this week, as the county school system moved into Stage Three of its “Responsible Return” plan. Stage Three is a hybrid model of inDr. A. Wallace struction with alternating weeks of in-person learning. According to the “Responsible Return” plan, grades prekindergarten 3 and pre-kindergarten 4 to fifth grade, will be Denise Shorts able to bring as many students back as possible during their A Week/B Week assignment while maintaining social distancing. Those who are A Week students will return to classrooms, while students who are B Week will engage in remote learning with both synchronous and asynchronous instruction. As for the middle and high school students, during B Weeks they will
join their classes synchronously by video conferencing into their classes following their daily schedules. Asynchronous work will also be required during this model. “[The schools] took the remainder of the kids who wanted to come back that weren’t in Stage Two and they tried to divide it equally,” said Denise Shorts, chief academic Dr. J. McDonald officer for grades prekindergarten through eighth. “We did work with families, so that if I went to Decatur High School and I had a sibling that was at Decatur Middle and another sibling that Kathleen Manns went to BIS, we were all doing the same week, so we were A Week kids together or B Week students.” During Stage Two of the “Responsible Return,” 33 percent of the student population returned to the classrooms. They remain in face-toface instruction all the time. “We follow all of our very strict protocols that we have in place that were approved by the state depart-
ALLY LANASA/OCEAN CITY TODAY
Nearly 80 percent of Worcester County public school students are engaged in partial in-person instruction now that the local school system has transitioned to Stage Three of its “Responsible Return” plan, which has alternating A Week/B Week schedules.
ment [of health] as well as our local health department,” said Dr. Annette Wallace, chief academic officer for grades ninth through 12th. “We have not had any outbreaks or spread of the virus in our schools … It only makes sense that we’re going to have cases of students and staff that are affected by the virus, but for us, the key metric is not having any outbreaks in our schools and not having any folks that are close contacts contract covid.” Since the return from the holiday break, there has been no evidence of covid-like illnesses at the schools, Wallace said. “Our staff is really doing a tremendous job to keep themselves and our students safe,” she added. “I think it really is a testament to their work. It’s a testament to Lauren Williams [coordinator of school health services] and the amount of time we spent training teachers.” On Monday, the first health and safety walk-throughs were completed with the local health department. “All three schools that we went and did that walk-through on were doing a wonderful job, and it was unannounced,” Wallace said. Stage Four of the “Responsible Return” plan is a return to normal instruction practices with all students in the classrooms. Currently, the county school system has no target date for when that will happen. “We watch the metrics every day,” Wallace said. “Originally, our return to school plan had to be based on those metrics. The governor went in and changed the game a couple weeks ago, and those metrics have now disappeared off the decision-making chart.” Wallace said as long as the community metrics – the positivity rate and number of cases – continue to be on the trajectory they’re currently on and there are no spreads of the virus in the schools, the administration hopes to have all students who want to return back to in-person instruction on a daily basis. “We’re building a lot of success every day that we have kids in school and we don’t have any spread in our schools,” she added.
Shorts said schools Superintendent Lou Taylor has committed to Worcester County families that any students who want to remain in distance learning will have the opportunity to do so, even if the schools move into Stage Four. In addition, Shorts and Wallace commended teachers for their dedication to learning in this new environment of hybrid instruction. “It’s quite a testament to their professionalism and their resilience and their commitment to their students,” Shorts said. “We have numerous meetings with our teachers’ association and we’re out in the schools quite a bit, which has been wonderful these past few weeks, and my assessment is that teachers are handling it very well.” As part of Phase 1C of Maryland’s covid-19 vaccine distribution, educational staff, including kindergarten through 12th grade teachers, support staff and daycare providers are eligible for the vaccine. Wallace said the public school system surveyed teachers and employees last week about the vaccine. “On Monday of last week, we had a little over 500 staff members that have received their first dose of the vaccine,” she said. “About 23 percent of those that answered that survey said they are not interested in the vaccine.” Through a partnership with Atlantic General Hospital, the school personnel were able to receive the vaccine. “The only clinics that we’ve had that have been dedicated to educators only have been through Atlantic General Hospital,” Wallace said. “We really, really appreciate Michael Franklin and his partnership with us.” Shorts, Wallace and Taylor were among those who have been administered the vaccine. About 800 of the full-time daily staff members, or 70 percent, answered that they wanted to be vaccinated. “We have some teachers who have chosen to not yet get vaccinated that at some point want to be vaccinated,” Wallace said, adding that some peo-
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Ocean City Today
WCPS transitions to hybrid model of learning ple are waiting for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine to be released or are observing the symptoms of the vaccine before receiving it themselves. She also said that the survey was only sent to staff members, not contractual positions like bus drivers and substitute teachers. At Most Blessed Sacrament School off Racetrack Road in Berlin, 75 percent of the staff has received the first dose of the vaccine, said Principal Kathleen Manns. “Our teachers, administrators and staff have been working the front
lines since September and were offered the vaccine through [Atlantic General Hospital] two weeks ago. All our employees that wanted the vaccine were able to receive it,” Manns said. “We are grateful for [Atlantic General Hospital] for their efficient distribution of the vaccine. It has given us all a sense of relief that there is a light at the end of this.” There have been multiple cases of coronavirus reported at Most Blessed Sacrament since students returned from the holiday break. “We have been working hard at
[Most Blessed Sacrament] to provide in-person instruction in the safest environment possible,” Manns said. “Since we returned from Christmas break, our school community has had three positive cases that were all contracted outside of school.” According to the school’s newsletters, anyone who has been in close contact with the positive individuals have been notified and instructed to quarantine. Anyone who is considered a high-risk contact, the person or, in the case of a student, the parents will be notified directly.
As for Worcester Preparatory School on South Main Street in Berlin, Dr. John McDonald, head of school, said there have been no new cases of covid-19 since the return from winter break. However, some families did quarantine as a precaution after traveling. “Things are still going well, and we remain open for in-person instruction,” he said. “We have not mandated immunization, but a vast majority of our staff have opted to get the vaccine with many already receiving their first shot.”
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Ocean City Today
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Assoc. Broker, CRS
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W.R. McCain and Associates, Inc. has appraised the value of parcel 410 with its two buildings at $770,000, should the Berlin Mayor and Council decide to sell the property in Heron Park on Old Ocean City Boulevard.
Berlin council considers sale of two parcels in Heron Park By Ally Lanasa The reconciled value without the Staff Writer two buildings is $660,000, according (Feb. 12, 2021) The town of Berlin to W.R. McCain and Associates Inc. Fleetwood reminded the council has potential buyers for two parcels that sit in front of the entry to the that there would be an “interruption paths and ponds in Heron Park, but of operation” if the two buildings are the mayor and council have to decide sold because they currently store the whether they have any interest in town’s equipment. “Prior to us acquiring that propselling. Further, if they did decide to let go erty at Heron Park, we were storing of one or both of the properties, the our snowplows, wood chippers [and] things of that naprocess of arrangture … out in the eling a sale would be ‘We have had interest from ements,” he said. complicated by the multiple entities regarding “Now, we have that town’s needs for parcel 410...One of those easements, its luxury where they hopes to build a entities has actually put their are being stored out of the weather, so skate park, and the interest in writing’ that adds value to matter of its use of Town Administrator our equipment.” one of the affected Jeff Fleetwood If the council buildings for equiphad interest in sellment storage. Town Adminising parcel 410, Attrator Jeff Fleetwood said during the torney David Gaskill said the council Berlin mayor and Town Council would need to make a finding that the meeting on Monday that an appraisal parcel is not needed for public use. for the 10-acre parcel, 410, which sits “We’d have to advertise that and in the middle of the 60-acre park have the council pass a motion at a property, was received from a poten- meeting that it finds that the parcel is not needed for public use,” Gaskill tial buyer. “We have had interest from multi- said. “Thereafter, I believe we should ple entities regarding parcel 410,” he consider issuing a request for propossaid. “One of those entities has actu- als to the public, who may be interested in purchasing that.” ally put their interest in writing.” From conversation with Mayor ZaFleetwood told that entity to pay for the appraisal of the property, ckery Tyndall and Fleetwood, Gaskill which came back at $770,000 for the said there are easements that the town may want on parcel 410 and sixland and the structures on it. “I wish to make it known on that acre parcel 57 to accommodate the parcel, parcel 410, there are currently remaining portions of the park. two out buildings, one of which was If the council is interesting in sellthe old Tyson plant maintenance ing the land, Tyndall said town staff shop for their vehicle fleet and then and elected officials are brainstormthere is a pole barn that sits to the ing the operational impacts. The town could do a lot line adnorthern end of the property that was used for storage,” he said. See PUBLIC Page 55
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
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Ocean City Today
Public input sought before Town Council decides sale Continued from Page 54 justment for access to the ponds and paths if it plans to sell the parcels. “Basically, you would be retaining access to the rear parcel, parcel 52, which is shown with the blue ponds on it, and not sell the entirety of either parcel,” said Dave Engelhart, the town’s planning director. “Really, it would be creating another lot or creating another portion of the rear lot, parcel 52.” He added that line adjustments would be similar to easements that Gaskill referred to on the east and west ends for circulation in and out of the park. “One of the entities that has expressed interest in writing owns one of the parcels that sits to the south of 410, so you could make it a requirement as well that we would want another easement off of 346 to the east side of 410, so that we have more than one access and entry from the back parcel 52,” Fleetwood added. As for parcel 57, one entity has expressed interest in writing and an ap-
praisal is underway. Parcels 410 and 57 are zoned R-1 Residence District. Councilmember Shaneka Nichols asked if the town sold the parcels would parking spaces be included in the line adjustments or easements. “You can do anything you want,” Fleetwood replied. Tyndall added that if council members are interested in selling the property, then proposed easements would be discussed. “I view parcel 410 the more valuable of the two parcels to the town,” Councilman Jay Knerr said. “I see it as a potential to add growth to the park, to build an entertainment venue, to build a skatepark – there’s any number of things the town could use that clear parcel for … I would hate to see the town sell parcel 410. I would not be in favor of that.” Knerr said he did have some interest in selling parcel 57 to reduce the debt service of the town’s budget. “That’s why we’re here this evening. We really want to hear each
ALLY LANASA/OCEAN CITY TODAY
The Berlin Mayor and Council are contemplating selling parcel 57, which contains the former Tyson chicken processing plant in Heron Park on Old Ocean City Boulevard, after receiving written interest in the property.
one of yours’ opinions as it related to those two parcels,” Tyndall said. Responding to Nichols’ question, Tyndall said that the Town Council could decide how to sell the land, parts of the parcels or the whole parcels. Burrell added that he’d like to hear the public’s thoughts about the parcels before making a decision. He also would like to see the cost of the
replacement vehicle storage. Tyndall suggested having multiple public hearings to assess the public’s opinion about selling the parcels, then to discuss the proposed easements. Councilman Troy Purnell agreed with seeking more public comment before a vote about the sale amid discussions for recreational space at the park for skateboarders in town.
Call 410-449-4090 Today for more information or to schedule a visit to our on-site showroom. Our Staff is Regularly Tested for Covid-19
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PAGE 56
Ocean City Today
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Limited events at convention center planned By Greg Wehner Staff Writer (Feb. 12, 2021) Despite the presence of covid-19 as a roadblock to many planned activities in Ocean City, the Roland E. Powell Convention Center has a number of events on the table beginning in March. Convention center Director Larry Noccolino told the Town Tourism Commission on Monday that a volleyball tournament is expected to take place from March 12-14, along with Varsity Spirit – a cheerleading competition – from March 26-28 at the 40th Street venue. Even though convention center officials are waiting on the specifics on how to proceed during the pandemic from the Worcester County Health Department and state authorities, Noccolino said the events in March
have been confirmed. The news came almost a week after comedian Jay Leno canceled a series of shows, including those at the convention center. In addition to the sporting events in March, Noccolino said there could be a firemen convention in June, and that planners of the conLarry Noccolino vention have been given alternate dates in August if needed. The main thing the convention center director said was that he has been in communication with state and county officials on how to proceed with events during the pandemic, and that anytime he speaks with event planners about booking
space at the center, Noccolino always finishes his statements with “as of today.” “Don’t cancel anything at this point,” he added. In addition to the events planned at the convention center, the special events committee said it plans to present a modified version of Susan Jones Springfest to the City Council at its Feb. 16 meeting, and that it is working on putting together a modified version of Winterfest. Susan Jones, the executive director of the Ocean City Hotel-MotelRestaurant Association, told the tourism commission members that a Facebook Live panel will take place
on March 8 to discuss the state of the industry. American Hotel & Lodging Association President Chip Rogers is expected to be on the panel. Jones also said a dinner to swear in officers is being planned for April 8 at the convention center, and that the association is working with the Maryland Center for Hospitality on a pilot to help match people who are unemployed in places like Baltimore, with jobs in places like Ocean City through a work-and-play program. “Hopefully, we will get some jobs in Maryland that will stay in Maryland,” she said. And finally, the Chamber of Commerce announced during the meeting that even though the visitor center is staffed every day, it is open to the public by appointment only. To access the building, visitors will have to call and setup an appointment.
Holiday gift leads to winning ticket in Dec. 26 drawing (Feb. 12, 2021) The lottery has been generous in Ocean City recently, with a million-dollar scratch-off winner reported last week, and this week a $50,000 winner. A local woman calling herself “Beach Baby” bought Powerball and Mega Millions tickets for her family members to share, but not until recently did she check the numbers for the Dec. 26 drawing. The 59-year-old Ocean City resident said she and her older sister have teamed up in the past to buy Maryland Lottery tickets and then split any winnings. “The family had gotten together on a conference call around the holidays to catch up when I told them I would be getting a Powerball and a Mega Millions ticket for all of us,” said the winner. “Beach Baby” then went to the 7Eleven at 11911 Coastal Highway in Ocean City on Dec. 24 and bought a Mega Millions ticket and an $8 Powerball quick-pick ticket for the Dec. 26 drawing. New Year’s Day came and went before she remembered to check the tickets. When she read in the newspaper about a Powerball winner at a local 7-Eleven, “Beach Baby” retrieved the ticket from her car and found it matched four winning numbers and the Powerball, which gave them a third-tier $50,000 prize.
Your Online Community: www.oceancitytoday.com
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
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Ocean City Today
Fifth Ocean City Film Festival virtual this yr. (Feb. 12, 2021) The fifth annual Ocean City Film Festival will be virtual in 2021, streaming to homes March 4-11. The event is an initiative of the Art League of Ocean City that produces the festival along with broad community sponsorship. “We have extended the festival to a week-long event in 2021 to give viewers more time to view all the films,” B.L. Strang-Moya, Film Festival director, said. “In past years, festival attendees physically couldn’t get to see every single film. An advantage to this year’s virtual festival is viewers can watch almost all the films anytime they want during that week, in the comfort and safety of their own homes.” Over the week of March 4-11, the festival will stream more than 80 independent films on the proven Eventive platform with menus and interactions similar to Netflix. The festival received more than 103 entries from around the world, and judges selected 72 films representing 15 U.S. states, including Hawaii, and 11 countries: Argentina, United Kingdom, Turkey, Canada, Iran, Belgium, France, India, Brazil,
Spain and Vietnam. “This is a very high acceptance rate and indicates the quality of entries we received,” Strang-Moya said. “These submissions are from filmmakers who were able to persevere despite the pandemic challenges facing the film industry. Ten of our films also come from the 2020 OC Film Challenge, plus several invited films to be announced.” The festival will stream independent films in multiple genres: animation, dramatic shorts, environmental and aquatic, feature length, funny shorts, horror/sci-fi, short documentary, youth short films, and short feel-good films. Many of the shorter films will be grouped into blocks for easy viewing. “We are grateful to have recently been named members of the Sundance Industry Office, a testament to the rapid growth and interest in our festival locally, nationally and internationally,” Strang-Moya added. “We will announce the full schedule of our invited feature films upon the completion of the 2021 Sundance Film Festival.” Salisbury-native Eric Walter will come home with a showing of “My
Amityville Horror,” named one of the top 10 festival horror films, in anticipation of his upcoming feature, “Dark Side of the Mountain.” Walter who previously worked at WBOC, is a director, editor, and documentary filmmaker in Los Angeles, known for producing investigative non-fiction films. He has produced and consulted on numerous documentaries for film and television with a focus on cold cases and unexplained phenomena. The feature-length documentary, “The Friendliest Town,” about racial injustice in Pocomoke City, will also stream during the festival. The film was directed and produced by Baltimore journalists Stephen Janis and Taya Graham and follows the career, firing, and court trials of former Police Chief Kelvin Sewell as well as town reaction. The festival will include Zoom workshops, virtual filmmaker get-togethers, and other special events. The festival has also planned a follow-up in-person drive-in movie event on March 26-27 at the Ocean City inlet parking lot, featuring “The Best of the
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Fest 2021,” weather permitting. The films have not been rated, and some feature adult content. Viewer discretion is advised. For the fifth year, Bishopville artist Ian Postley designed the official Film Festival poster, incorporating iconic local landmarks with fantastical characters. This year’s design features a cast of robots parading under the Ocean City Boardwalk arch, marking a transition from an in-person event to an exclusively electronic event. Festival passes are available at OCMDFilmFestival.com or by calling 410-524-9433. Prices allow customization to create a personal viewing experience. Passes start at $10 per feature film or film block. Multi-film packages are also available: six features and/or film blocks, $49; 13 features and/or film blocks, $99. Or see everything with an All-Access Pass for $149. The Art League of Ocean City is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing the visual arts to the community through education, exhibits, scholarship, programs and community art projects.
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Are you looking for property that is convenient to Route 50 and halfway to the beach and Salisbury? Look no further! Great opportunity to purchase 15 +acres of buildable land! If you're not looking to build right away, this property is also perfect for hunting, dirt bikes, or simply just flex recreational space to enjoy the peaceful countryside. Both cleared land appox. 7 acres and then is backed with the remaining wooded acreage. Small creek separates the 2 & can easily be accessed w/culvert. Priced to sell!
1BR/1BA in the Woodlands of Ocean Pines. Community Center serviced by on-site professional staff & 24/7 front desk. This light filled condo is the largest 1BR model available & only 3 of these units in entire building. Includes foyer, living room, dining room, kitchen, sunroom & primary BR & BA w/arge walk-in closet. Flooring is lush beautiful carpet, hardwood floors in kitchen & foyer. Condo fee also includes assigned parking spot, common area maintenance, cable & internet, building insurance, water and sewer & trash service.
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MLS MDWO119316
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LISTINGS ARE LOW AND WE HAVE PLENTY OF BUYERS LOOKING Homes on Market – January 2021
9367
Buyers Actively Looking – January 2021
105 74TH STREET OCEAN CITY • $399,000
227,509
Homes Under Contract – January 2021
Contemporary 3BR/3BA w/4th BR option. 1st & 2nd floor master BRs, 3 fireplaces, hardwood floors, living room, separate dining rooms, kitchen family room. Multiple decks, mudroom, walkin attic. Recently replaced gas hot water heater. New roof replaced in 2018. Conveniently located close to North Gate entrance & walking distance to parks and community amenities! Crawlspace was encapsulated w/dehumidifier installed.
LC-1 property in GREAT location! Great visibility from Coastal Highway! Many options for commercial development. 3 leases are currently active. Both apartments are leased until end of August 2021, and AT&T is leasing a small piece of the south-east corner for cell-antenna pole. Current leases will generate over $22,000.00 per year! Structure is in need of some repairs & is sold as-is. 2BR/2BA on 1st Floor Apartment. 2BR/1BA on 2nd Floor Apartment.
MLS MDWO117562
MLS MDWO119698
10,922
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PAGE 58
Ocean City Today
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Sgt. Collier closed 31 years of service with OCPD in Jan. (Feb. 12, 2021) After more than 31 years of service to the citizens of Ocean City, Sgt. Douglas Collier retired on Jan. 31 from the Ocean City Police Department. Collier began his career with the OCPD as a full-time police officer in May 1989. He was promoted to the rank of sergeant in 2006. During his career, Sgt. D. Collier Collier has served as an instructor in several fields. He trained his fellow officers in firearms, defensive tactics, Taser, radar, CPR/AED, first aid, and as a classroom instructor. In addition to taking on the instructor/trainer role, Collier was a traffic
crash reconstruction expert. “He dedicated his career to training and sharpening the skill set available to our officers,” a statement from the police department said. After his retirement, Collier plans to continue his education. He is currently working on his second master’s degree in crime scene investigation through Stevenson University, and is aiming for a doctorate and teaching college-level criminal justice classes. “I would like to thank the Town of Ocean City for providing me the excellent opportunity almost 32 years ago. It has been an amazing ride, and I am grateful for the friends and memories that I have made during my time working for the Town of Ocean City,” he said. PHOTO COURTESY LISA CHALLENGER
Olivia Brown earned first place in the Gittings Equitation Medal Finals in October at the McDonogh Fall Classic Horse Show in Owings Mills. She is pictured with her trainer, Marianne Roth.
Brown takes first place in Gittings Equitation Finals (Feb. 12, 2021) Olivia Brown won the coveted Gittings Equitation Medal Finals in October at the McDonogh Fall Classic Horse Show in Owings Mills, Maryland. It was her fifth year competing in the Gittings Medal finals. “I just knew going into this year that this was the year I had to make it happen,” she said. “I’ve worked and trained so hard but each year I was just a little out of medal contention.” Brown, who lives in Berlin, rides under the direction of Marianne Roth of Endeavor Farm in Bishopville. She beat 17 other competitors on her horse, Lapis, scoring an 87 in the over fences phase. To earn a seat in the finals, a rider needs to have won at least one Gittings medal during the competition year. Like hunter divisions, equitation classes are judged subjectively. However, instead of judging the horse, the rider is assessed on their style and ability to control their mount over a technical course. This discipline recognizes the “horsemanship” behind riding as it rewards riders who enhance their mounts by riding with classic style. The equitation competition consisted of three rounds. In the first round, riders completed a course of jumps in a specific order. After the first round was complete, riders were scored and the top 10 returned for a second round for “flat See BERLIN Page 60
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
PAGE 59
COMMUNITY/SCHOOLS
PHOTO COURTESY WORCESTER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
VACCINATED Superintendent of Schools Lou Taylor receives his first dose of the covid vaccine on Jan. 29, along with other Worcester County Public Schools staff through the partnership of Atlantic General Hospital and the Worcester County Health Department.
RECOGNITION National School Counseling Week is celebrated Feb. 1-5, recognizing contributions of school counselors. Students in Shelby Matassa's kindergarten class at Ocean City Elementary made pictures for the school’s counselor, Linda McGean.
ALLY LANASA/OCEAN CITY TODAY
GREG ELLISON/OCEAN CITY TODAY
VENDOR MARKET
LITTLE SKATERS
Laurie Miller, joined by her husband, Ernest, sells farmhouse décor made with her Cricut machine during the Windmill Creek Vineyard and Winery vendors market in Berlin on Jan. 24.
Summer Jachimski, 2, left, contemplates sharing a snack with Damien Schwind, 3, while the youths skate by each other on the White Horse Park basketball court in Ocean Pines on Saturday.
DONATION The Ocean City Lions Club recently donated $500 to the Blood Bank of Delmarva. Pictured, from left, are Norm Cathell, past district governor; Bill Christmas, Lions second vice president; Marie Forestal, Blood Bank director of donor recruitment; Bryan Shepherd, Blood Bank accounts manager; and Mike Hooper, Lions president.
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FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
Berlin resident wins event finals
Taylor, Tucker earn 2020 Assateague Island top honors (Feb. 12, 2021) Kelly Taylor and Logan Tucker are the recipients of the 2020 Assateague Island National Seashore Superintendent’s Award. This year’s Superintendent’s Award was given to two employees who have provided outstanding support to park visitors, park staff and the National Park Service. “Through a year which included an extended shutdown due to covid-19, budget uncertainties, our inability to hire a full complement of seasonal staff, a phased covid-19 reopening, operating during a pandemic, and record visitation, Kelly and Logan demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication,” said Superintendent Hugh Hawthorne. “Both rangers assisted other park departments accomplish goals, offering solutions to the unique problems of 2020 and going above and beyond.” Taylor, Assateague Island National Seashore’s Maryland District supervisor for interpretation and education, was recognized for her outstanding service during the 2020 season. With visitor centers closed, all ranger-led programming cancelled, and staffing levels at a minimum, Taylor and her interpretive staff redirected their work efforts to support the campground and entrance station operations. Tucker, a law enforcement ranger in the Maryland District of Assateague Island National Seashore, assumed tasks and responsibilities that supported all other divisions in the park. His high-quality enforcement, public safety and emergency services protected park visitors and island resources during a challenging and difficult season. Rangers Taylor and Tucker demonstrated initiative far surpassing their routine duties. Their hard work and innovative solutions to the unique challenges of the 2020 season have made a significant, positive difference at Assateague Island National Seashore.
PHOTO COURTESY NATIONAL PARK SERVICES
Rangers Logan Tucker and Kelly Taylor are Assateague Island National Seashore’s 2020 Superintendent’s Award recipients.
Continued from Page 58 class.” During the flat class, the judges asked riders to perform certain tasks with their horses, such as walk, trot, or canter, and variations of those movements The top four riders from the second round moved on to the final round. “Lapis held the lead the entire competition,” said Brown, who has been riding since she was 5 years old. She is now 17. “I love the sport, I love taking care of horses, and I love competing,” she added. The Gittings medal is named after Maryland Horse Show Association Hall of Famer, D. Sterrett Gittings.
County jail warden to retire Feb. 28 Donna Bounds steps down after nearly four decades of working in detention center (Feb. 12, 2021) Following a decorated career in corrections, Worcester County Jail Warden Donna Bounds has announced she will retire on Feb. 28. “As the county’s warden, Donna has had the responsibility for the charge and care of the County’s inmates,” Chief Administrative Officer Harold Higgins said. “Inmates in the county are referred to as trustees, and with 39 years of service to this county, I cannot think of a more trustworthy individual to have taken on the day to day responsibilities of the jail.” Bounds, a certified corrections officer, began her career as a correctional officer in the small county jail on Court Street on March 1, 1982, and rose through the ranks. She was promoted to operations commander in 2007, assistant war-
den in 2011, and warden in 2017. Bounds has dedicated her career to the humane treatment of legally confined inmates. She has served as the head of an outstanding team whose ongoing commitment to excellence and years of leadership have played a pivotal Donna Bounds role in the jail earning the Recognition of Achievement Award from the Maryland Commission on Correctional Standards (MCCS) for achieving 100 percent compliance for 18 consecutive years. Under her direction, the jail continues to be recognized as one of the finest correctional institutions in the state. “I am truly thankful and blessed to have had the opportunity to work in my home town of Snow Hill for 39 years at the Worcester County Jail,” Bounds said. “I would like to thank the county commissioners past and
present for the support through the years. I would like to thank my past and current coworkers for helping make my career a success.” Bounds is a 2003 graduate of Wilmington University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice, and a graduate of Wor-Wic Community College, where she earned correctional officer certification in 1982 and an Associate of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice in 1989. She received certification from the Maryland State Police to collect DNA samples. Bounds is also Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) certified by the Department of Justice, and a state-certified in-service corrections instructor. Former Assistant Warden Fulton Holland will step into the position of warden. Holland is a certified corrections officer with 23 years of experience in law enforcement and correctional services who has a proven record of success overseeing Worcester County Jail operations.
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
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FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
Beach district plants available for dune planting
LISA CAPITELLI/OCEAN CITY TODAY
AFTERNOON TREAT
Seagulls swarm a family as they offer the birds some treats on the beach downtown. Although they seem to enjoy the snacks, visitors are discouraged from feeding seagulls.
State lawmakers eye ICE centers Proposed legislation would eliminate trio of detention facilities, one in Worcester By Audrey Decker Capital News Service (Feb. 12, 2021) Maryland lawmakers heavily debated a bill concerning ICE detention centers on Wednesday, including testimony from a previous detainee who spoke about her experience in a detention center. The Dignity Not Detention Act would prevent the state’s detention centers from renewing existing contracts with ICE or private prison companies and prevent the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency from coming into Maryland in the future to build new detention centers. Additionally, under this bill, SB0478 and HB0016, if ICE is planning to build any new detention centers in Maryland, the public would be informed. “ICE detention is horrible, but it is a million times more horrible and devastating during the pandemic,” said Cathryn Paul, research and policy analyst at CASA, the largest immigrant services and advocacy organization in Maryland. There have been multiple accounts of immigrants in Maryland facilities who were detained and not given masks until late into the pandemic and people who weren’t given basic necessities when they got sick, Paul said. A vast majority of detainees have no criminal record — other than the possible immigration violations for
which they are being detained — but even if they did, no one should be subject to unsafe treatment in the United States, said Del. Vaughn Stewart, D-Montgomery, a sponsor of the bill. Maryland has three ICE detention centers, one each in Howard County, Frederick County and Worcester County. The three jurisdictions are to receive approximately $7.8 million in total payments, based on per diem rates, from the federal government in fiscal 2021 to house individuals, under detention agreements, according to the bill’s fiscal and policy note. Opponents of this bill make a public safety argument. This bill is a backdoor attempt at attacking programs that aim to keep communities safe, Frederick County Sheriff Chuck Jenkins, R, said in an interview with Capital News Service. There are a lot of false narratives about the conditions of these private detention facilities, said Shari Rendall, director of state and local engagement at the Federation for American Immigration Reform. If detention facilities don’t comply with and enforce strict standards, the United States becomes a nation without laws, Rendall said. “Proponents of Dignity Not Detention want to make our immigration laws meaningless. Congress has entrusted ICE to enforce our immigration laws, which means that ICE has an obligation to remove those illegally in the country,” Rendall said. The intention of this bill could backfire if ICE is required to detain people outside of Maryland because
detainees would be taken further from their families and might not have access to counsel, Rendall said. Sen. Robert Cassilly, R-Harford, indicated during a Senate committee hearing that the bill appears to be more of a political message than a measure to counter unfair treatment of undocumented immigrants. Nora Argueta testified from El Salvador on Wednesday, speaking through a translator on Zoom. Argueta is a CASA member who was deported after living almost 18 years in the United States. Argueta recounted for lawmakers the time she was detained for 10 months in Worcester County while she was fighting her case. None of the guards spoke Spanish, she said, even though most of the people in the detention center were Hispanic. Her time in detention was “traumatic” and she told a story of when she grabbed onto a guard to ask for help, but they took it as an act of aggression, stripped her and held her on the ground, she said. Proponents say this bill is connected to the broader effort of working on racial justice in Maryland and across the country. “Legislators are finally rising up to answer the calls of the Black Lives Matter movement and take action on criminal justice reform. Dignity Not Detention is just one piece of addressing our bigger movement to end mass incarceration in Maryland,” Paul said. A hearing is scheduled in a House of Delegates committee on March 3. If passed, this bill would go into effect July 1, 2021.
(Feb. 12, 2021) For the 16th year, the Town of Ocean City will be offering beach district plants to the public for planting in the secondary dune area. The plants being offered are hardy plants that tolerate the harsh environment of the oceanfront areas. In addition, these plants provide habitat enhancement, food and shelter, water quality treatment and erosion control to the secondary dune area, which tends to be overlooked and needs attention. “We began this program to help create habitat and prevent erosion of the area behind the dune which was in need of attention,” said Town of Ocean City Environmental Engineer Gail Blazer. “The plants are very beneficial to the stability of the dune system and help with erosion and scour. Our residents and property owners love the program and it benefits the environment and the beach, so it is a win for everyone.” Oceanfront and oceanside residents will have the opportunity to order plants that will need to be picked up at a predetermined date and time. Suitable plants to add to a secondary dune area include beach grass, bayberry, rugosa rose, beach plum, high tide bush, red cedar and panic grass. Applications are now being accepted. The deadline for all applications is March 5. For more information or to receive an application, contact Blazer at 410289-8825 or email gblazer@oceancitymd.gov. More information is also provided at https://oceancitymd.gov/beachgrant.
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FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Wor. Arts Council scholarship program now open to apply (Feb. 12, 2021) The Worcester County Arts Council’s Student Arts Scholarship award program is underway. The scholarship awards range from $500 to $2,000 for qualifying high school seniors who are Worcester County residents interested in majoring in the arts. Scholarships are also available to college art majors wishing to continue their education in the arts. In 2020, a total of $10,000, including the John Sisson family’s contribution, was awarded to five students pursuing an education in the arts. The Worcester County Arts Council’s Student Arts Scholarship program is designed to identify, recognize and encourage students who demonstrate excellence in creative writing, culinary arts, dance, music, theater, or visual arts. This is a merit scholarship and award decisions are based on evaluation of talent, dedication, and potential – not financial need. The number and amount of the award are based on the funds’ availability. Funds are provided for tuition costs and fees and are paid directly to the applicant’s school.
Application and scholarship guidelines are available on the Arts Council’s website: www.worcestercountyartscouncil.org /artsscholarship. All applications must be received by Monday, May 3. For further information, contact Anna Mullis, executive director, at anna@worcestercountyartscouncil.org. The Worcester County Arts Council welcomes donations to support the arts scholarship fund. To make a tax-deductible contribution, visit www.worcestercountyartscouncil.org. The Worcester County Arts Council is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to support, promote and encourage visual, performing, and literary arts in Worcester County. As designated by the Maryland State Arts Council County arts agency, the Worcester County Arts Council is committed to fostering the excellence, diversity, and vitality of arts, artists, and arts organizations and increasing access to the arts for all members of our community. The Worcester County Arts Council is funded by the grant from the Maryland State Arts Council and supported by memberships, donations, and local sponsorships.
Arts & Healing contest winners (Feb. 12, 2021) The Worcester County Arts Council recently announced the winners of the Arts & Healing Online Contest, which promoted mental health awareness through art during the covid-19 pandemic. Ashley Cuffee judged the works. First place was awarded to Joanne Guilfoil, “For Eva a Russian Win.” Mitzi Ash, “The Blue Butterfly,” came in second place, and third place
went to Ashley Barton, for “Keep Looking for Sunshine.” Honorable mention was presented to Aaron Hoffman, for “Clamshell Beach Sun Reflection.” The artwork and stories/poems/messages relating to each piece of art may be viewed on The Worcester County Arts Council’s website: https://www.worcestercountyartscouncil.org/arts-healing.
Whiskey Club charity golf event (Feb. 12, 2021) The Delmarva Whiskey Club will hold its seventh annual charity golf event on March 20. The St. Patrick’s Day Golf & Dinner event will take place at Bayside Resort Golf Club in Selbyville, Delaware, and will feature a shotgun start at 11:30 a.m. in a foursome team scramble format. Golf will be followed at 6:30 p.m. by a sit-down pairing of food and high-end Irish Whiskey at the new Signatures at Bayside restaurant. Proceeds from the events will go to Semper K9, a nonprofit organization which trains rescue dogs as service
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Ocean City Today
animals and donates the dogs to wounded veterans. The Delmarva Whiskey Club was established for whiskey fans. The club sponsors various whiskey-tasting events during the year. It welcomes those who have just begun to appreciate whiskey, as well as seasoned whiskey aficionados. To register for the golf tournament, or for more information, visit www.delmarvawhiskey.com/golf. To become a tournament sponsor or join the Whiskey Club, contact Kevin Clover, president, at 215-8151706 or at kevin@delmarvawhiskey.com.
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Atlantic United Methodist Church
Invites You to Join Us For
ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICE on February 17, 2021 Noon and 5pm
105 4th Street, Ocean City, Maryland MASK REQUIREMENTS AND SAFE DISTANCE PROTOCOLS ARE IN PLACE
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Ocean City Today
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Riverwalk project kicks off to connect Snow Hill parks
PHOTO COURTESY NATIONAL PARKS SERVICE
Piping plover chick with eggs at Assateague Island National Seashore.
(Feb. 12, 2021) Phase one of the new Riverwalk has begun in Snow Hill. Brick pavers have been installed in front of the Pocomoke River Canoe Company and the crosswalk at the municipal lot entrance. This section, along with the crosswalk already across Route 12 is the first step that will connect Gateway, Sturgis and Byrd parks. The Riverwalk will continue to Sturgis Park, along the rear perimeter of the soon-to-be-renovated, River Heritage Visitor Center, formerly PNC Bank. The Riverwalk will lead to the gangway of the Black-Eyed Susan
paddlewheel riverboat. The completed Riverwalk will connect downtown to the river via the Bank Street corridor, then onto Market Street passed the Julia A. Purnell Museum to the loop through Byrd Park back out to Market Street and down Dighton Avenue. The addition of the Shad Landing/Snow Hill Hiking-Biking Trail currently being pursued by the Department of Natural Resources, will enable connectivity from downtown Snow Hill to Shad Landing and points of interest in between, such as Town Hall and many of Snow Hill’s historic homes.
Assateague Island Alliance exceeds ’20 funding goals (Feb. 12, 2021) Assateague Island Alliance, the Friends Group of Assateague Island National Seashore, exceeded its fundraising goal in 2020 and is expanding its scope of work for 2021. In addition to providing stipends for wild horse management interns, Assateague Island Alliance announced the group will also fund one avian monitoring intern for 26 weeks. This intern will work with park staff and a dedicated volunteer corps to manage wildlife and visitor interactions in the park. Although the primary duties of this position will focus on bird conservation, monitoring populations of beach-nesting shorebirds and colonial waterbirds, the intern will also be valuable in assisting with research and monitoring programs in other work groups within the Natural Resource Management Division. “We are beyond grateful for the continued support of our donors through a challenging year with unprecedented stress on our public lands, wildlife, and the people that manage them,” said Nancy Gaither, board president. “We are pleased to expand our reach to help protect other vulnerable species, in addition
to the wild horses that rely on Assateague for survival, and to assist park staff in doing so.” This avian monitoring project benefits park visitors and wildlife alike. “The National Park Service consistently strives to seek a balanced approach to protecting federally-threatened species that nest along Assateague’s beaches, while providing recreational opportunities for park visitors,” said Chief of Resources Bill Hulslander. “Our monitoring team works hard every day throughout the summer to track each nest and restore visitor access to nesting areas as soon as possible. This avian monitoring intern is a critical member of our team.” Assateague Island Alliance, a 501(c)3 organization, is the official Friends Group to benefit Assateague Island National Seashore. All gifts of donation support Assateague Island’s Alliance’s mission to promote the awareness, education, and protection of Assateague Island National Seashore’s wildlife and natural resources for the enjoyment of current and future generations. For more information, call 443-6145375 or email outreachAIA@gmail.com.
Phase one of the new Riverwalk has begun in Snow Hill, with brick pavers installed in front of the Pocomoke River Canoe Company and the crosswalk at the municipal lot entrance.
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
Earned Income Tax Credit available for Md. residents (Feb. 12, 2021) The Maryland Department of Human Services is encouraging eligible Marylanders to take advantage of the Earned Income Tax Credit Benefit. Marylanders who made $57,000 or less in 2020 may qualify for both the federal and state Earned Income Tax Credits, as well as free tax preparation by the CASH Campaign of Maryland. Claiming the credits can reduce the tax owed and may also result in a larger refund. The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) was enacted on a temporary basis in 1975 as a modest tax credit that provided financial assistance to low-income, working families with children. Following various legislative changes over the past 40 years, the credit is now one of the federal government’s largest anti-poverty programs. Qualifying Marylanders who claim it on their federal return may also be entitled to a Maryland Earned Income Tax Credit on their state return equal to 50 percent of the federal tax credit. The Maryland EITC will then either reduce or eliminate the amount of the state and local income tax that individual owes. “Given the compounding hardships of this past year, it is absolutely imperative that, under the leadership of Governor Hogan, we equip our struggling citizens with every conceivable lifeline available to them,” said Secretary Lourdes Padilla. “The Maryland Earned Income Tax Credit can provide some necessary breathing room, as at least one burden can be legitimately reduced.” The CASH Campaign of Maryland and its partners are part of an IRS program to help prepare and electronically file qualifying Marylanders’ federal and state tax returns for free. IRS-certified staff check for tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit
and help Marylanders get their refund quickly with direct deposit. In response to covid-19, residents must make an appointment to receive the free services by calling 410-2348008, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and then choosing either the Virtual or Drop-Off tax prep services. Those unsure as to whether they qualify for the tax credit may also use the IRS’s online EITC Qualification Assistant. Available in a number of languages, including a versión en Español, the online calculator helps determine whether an individual is eligible for the EITC, if they have any qualifying children or relatives, the estimated amount of their tax credit, and their filing status. The EITC Assistant does not ask individuals to provide sensitive information such as name, Social Security number, address or bank account numbers, and the information entered into the assistant will not be saved or recorded. Additionally, if an individual’s earned income was higher in 2019 than in 2020, one can use the 2019 amount to figure their EITC for 2020. This temporary relief is provided through the Taxpayer Certainty and Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2020. More information on EITC can be found online at the Comptroller of Maryland, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and the CASH Campaign of Maryland, or by calling the following: Maryland United Way Helpline at 211 or 1- 800-492-0618 (the TTY line is 410-685-2159); CASH Campaign of Maryland 410234-8008 (Baltimore/Metro); Comptroller of Maryland, 1-800-MDTAXES (1-800-638-2937). To find a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site offering free tax prep in your area, call 410-6850525 or 1-800-492-0618, and the TTY line is 410-685-2159.
Check out this week’s
t n e m n i a t r e t En p u e Lin
In the pages of OCToday and Bayside Gazette
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Ocean City Today
Four new members join Kiwanis Club in Dec. (Feb. 12, 2021) The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines-Ocean City added four new members in December. Kiwanis International President Art Riley, during a Zoom meeting hosted by the local Kiwanis Club, inducted Doreen O’Connor, Joan Esworthy, Kathryn A. Hill and Steve Greco. O’Connor is a retired elementary school counselor from Queen Anne’s County, Maryland. She was responsible for working directly with students and families as well as organizing and administering many of the service projects that the school participated in. She is currently a substitute teacher for Worcester County, and holds a certification as a yoga instructor. Esworthy and her husband, Paul, moved to Ocean Pines in 2018 from Sykesville, Maryland. They enjoy the beach, fishing and all of the activities in the area, and are the parents of four geriatric dogs. In pre-retirement life, she worked remotely from Sykesville for a California-based company as an installation manager, responsible for installing GPS equipment in fleet vehicles throughout the U.S. and Canada. Since their move, Esworthy has
been able to connect with many old friends that have moved to the shore and she keeps busy volunteering with the Worcester County Humane Society and is a member of several other organizations. Hill lived the first 21 years of her life in northern New York. After college, she moved to Carroll County, Maryland, where she and her husband, Tim, brought up their three boys. She worked for the Carroll County Family YMCA for about 32 years and Carroll County Public schools for 20 years. Upon her retirement in June of this year, she and her husband were able to find more time to be in Ocean Pines. Making jewelry, refinishing furniture, designing flower arrangements, creating mosaic artwork, golfing and going for relaxing walks are things that keep her busy daily. She’s also a member of the Pine’eer Craft Club in Ocean Pines, where she helps set up displays in the gift shop. Greco and his wife, Trish, have been living in Ocean View, Delaware, since July. Prior to that, they lived in Sayville, New York for over 20 years. They have 2 children: Christopher (age 26) and Caroline (age 24), who
still live and work in the Greater New York area. Steve retired earlier this year. Prior to that, he owned Selectro Corporation, a company that supplied automotive lighting products to auto parts stores and warehouses across the USA. He sold the company in De-
cember of 2019. He enjoys running, biking and spending time with family and friends. His dad was a Kiwanian up until his death in May of 2018, and Steve looks forward to continuing his legacy of serving the children of his community through Kiwanis.
WATCHFUL EYE
A Great Blue Heron rests and observes in the brush around the lagoon at Northside Park on 125th Street during a mild late-January day.
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Ocean City Today
OP farmers market marks 10 years (Feb. 12, 2021) Next year marks a major milestone for the Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market, as the marketplace will celebrate its tenth anniversary in the spring. David Bean, who has served as the market manager in Ocean Pines for the last nine years, said an anniversary celebration is set for June 5, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., in White Horse Park. “We are ready to celebrate what we’ve accomplished over this past decade,” he said. Founded in 2012 as a small community farmers market, Bean said the Ocean Pines staple has grown to become the largest year-round farmers and artisans’ market on Delmarva. In 2016, the market updated its name by adding “artisans,” in recognition of the popular artisan and crafter section. Bean said the anniversary event would feature live music. Other special activities are also being planned, dependent on the COVID-19 pandemic environment at that time. “Where Weekends Begin in Ocean
READ THE
Pines” is the market’s tag line, he said, and that speaks to the market’s success and support from its loyal shoppers. One thing that makes the Ocean Pines marketplace so unique, he said, is how it has grown over the years. “The market attracts an outstanding selection of merchants from Delmarva and beyond,” he said. “It’s one of the things we are proudest of.” Over the years, the Ocean Pines market has promoted awareness and educational programs through the “Kids’ Market Zone,” “Meet Me at the Market” DIY workshops, and the extremely popular “Open-air Marketplace Kitchen.” “We collaborate with our market merchants, local chefs, and culinary experts to put on free educational cooking seminars about how to cook with the high-nutrition and low-cost foods found at the market,” Maggie Hearn, the market’s resident chef instructor, said. Bean said many who shop at the Ocean Pines market are from neighboring towns, but the draw has also
LOCAL NEWS
expanded even farther because of the region’s vast tourist industry. “The Ocean Pines market has always been a community hub with locals supporting locals, and we want to continue expanding our programming to grow with the Worcester County community,” Bean said. “We’re excited about our future.” He added that, because the market works to keep its merchant fees as low as possible, it allows virtually everyone to try their hand at selling their handmade artisan crafts at the market. That promotes the incubation of local small businesses. “Over the years, we’ve seen several of our merchants grow their market business into local storefronts in surrounding small-town communities,” Bean said. The Ocean Pines Farmers & Artisans Market runs every Saturday, yearround, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through March 2021. In-season hours, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., start in April. For more information, visit www.oceanpines.org/web/pages/far mers-artisans-market.
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OP Women’s Club scholarships to be presented in June (Feb. 12, 2021) The Women’s Club of Ocean Pines will be awarding scholarships in June to students who are full-time residents of Ocean Pines. These students must graduate from high school in good standing with a minimum grade point average of 2.5 and plan to attend an accredited institution for further education. These awards may be used by the recipient to help defray post-high school expenses at any approved degree, certificate-granting college or university, technical or vocational school. The Women’s Club of Ocean Pines Scholarship committee will consider the applicant’s needs, goals, scholarship, citizenship, community service, extra-curricular activities and motivation. The club believes in non-discrimination on the basis of race, gender, national origin or family status, in both principle and practice. Applications for these scholarships may be found on the Naviance website, www.naviance.com. All applications must be returned to a senior counselor at Stephen Decatur High School by March 22. Qualifying applicants who do not attend Stephen Decatur High School are asked to call 410-641-8046 for information and/or an application.
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Spectacular top floor, ocean block, corner unit has breathtaking views from every room and every direction in this one-of-a-kind penthouse. Huge terrace along with balcony off master and another off the living room. Open floor plan with great indoor – outdoor flow. Large kitchen with granite counters and stainless-steel appliances. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths including master with soaking tub and separate shower. North end location with 2 assigned covered parking spaces, guest parking plus indoor pool, sauna, fitness room, private self-storage unit. Sold furnished. $875,000 Call now to check out this awesome unit before it’s gone!
WATERFRONT in Montego Bay! Great location on a very wide canal and a Panoramic View. This 2 bed 2 bath home was completely renovated. Renovations include windows, electrical, plumbing, Heating system, hot water heater, flooring, Painted interior, trim, kitchen, bathrooms all Tiled, & appliances. Community amenities include 2 inground swimming pools, 2 tennis courts, a shuffleboard court, a 9 hole mini-golf course, an 8 acre wildlife sanctuary with a large pond and blacktop walking/jogging trail, and a bayfront boardwalk with 3 fishing/crabbing piers...all for only $299.00/yr. HOA dues. Within walking distance to shopping, dining, the bus stop, the Beach, and Ocean City's 58 acre North Side Park, home of the 4th of July Fireworks. This is a must see home...it will not last long! Sold Partially Furnished for $449,500!!
Larry Holdren Real Estate, Inc©
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For More Information Call 800-252-2223 • 410-250-2700
For More Information Call 800-252-2223 • 410-250-2700
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MONTEGO BAY COMMUNITY
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13901 Coastal Hwy., Suite 8, Ocean City, MD
Sunshine near the seashore! Imagine your new home on this prime building lot in Montego Bay Residential Community in N. Ocean City. Montego Bay offers many amenities, 2 adult pools, kiddie pool, tennis courts, puttputt/mini-golf, Bayfront Boardwalk to Fish & Crab and walking path around pond. Walking distance to the ocean, minutes from local shops and restaurants, the beautiful 58-acre Northside Park, highly sought-after location like this is an opportunity that shouldn't be missed. Water & power are already available on this 3,600 sq. ft. lot. The Buyer is responsible for removal of the non-livable mobile home currently on the property. So out with the old and move in with the new, whatever you imagine it to be. $145,000
Call Bill Rothstein montegobayrealty@aol.com 800-745-5988 • 443-280-2530
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167 CLAMSHELL ROAD
12905 Coastal Hwy • Ocean City, MD www.montegobayrealty.com
13901 Coastal Hwy., Suite 8, Ocean City, MD
Well-maintained 2BR/2BA 1st floor waterfront located off 94th St. in N. OC & 3/4 of a mile from OC's 10-mile long public beach. Located on canal, w/quick & easy access to bay. Deeded slip w/electric boat lift, private deck overlooks water. Open floorplan, fully equipped kitchen, central air, drywall interior w/6-panel interior doors, remodeled guest bath w/ceramic/glass shower surround, large kitchen pantry, full size washer & dryer, 4 ceiling fans w/lights, private outside storage shed and 2 assigned parking spaces. Neighborhood features the Little Salisbury Park which offers a tot lot, 2 outdoor tennis courts, basketball court, dog playground & Ocean City Art League. In addition there are 2 shopping centers with numerous restaurants & bars, a Roses department store, an Acme grocery store and a bank-all within walking distance. In addition there is a traffic light at 94th St., with a crosswalk on Coastal Hwy., that allows safe & easy access to the beach. $299,900
Call Michael “Montego Mike” Grimes Montegomike@verizon.net 800-745-5988 • 410-251-6821
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718 BRADLEY ROAD #H
12905 Coastal Hwy • Ocean City, MD www.montegobayrealty.com
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Ocean City Today
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
AGH Blue Distinction Center TRIBE collaboration launched designation awarded again (Feb. 12, 2021) Atlantic General Hospital has been recognized, once again, by CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst) with a Blue Distinction® Centers+ for Bariatric Surgery designation, as part of the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program. Blue Distinction Centers are nationally designated healthcare facilities that show a commitment to delivering high quality patient safety and better health outcomes, based on objective measures that were developed with input from the medical community and leading accreditation and quality organizations. The Blue Distinction Centers for Bariatric Surgery program provides a full range of bariatric surgery care; including surgical care, post-operative care, outpatient follow-up care, and patient education. Bariatric surgeries are among the most common elective surgeries in the U.S. — with more than 252,000 performed in 2018 based on a report from the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that nearly 42.7 percent of U.S. adults and 18.5 percent of youth are obese and are impacted by obesity-related health conditions. With obesity reaching epidemic levels among U.S. adults, a significant opportunity exists to improve quality care for bariatric surgeries within the national healthcare system. Atlantic General Hospital is proud to be recognized by CareFirst for meeting the rigorous Blue Distinction Center quality selection criteria for bariatric surgery set by the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program. “To be re-designated as a Blue Dis-
tinction Center+ is a validation of the consistently high quality of care provided by our Atlantic General Bariatric Center’s staff,” said Matthew Morris, chief nursing officer and vice president of patient care services at Atlantic General Hospital. “I’m proud of them and the health benefits they have been able to help our patients achieve.” Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for severely obese patients because it allows for substantial, sustained weight loss, which leads to, improves, or resolves obesity-related co-morbidities like type 2 diabetes. On average, healthcare costs were reduced by 29 percent within five years following bariatric surgery, due to the reduction or elimination of obesity-related conditions, based on findings by ASMBS. To receive a Blue Distinction Centers+ for Bariatric Surgery designation, a healthcare facility must demonstrate success in meeting patient safety measures as well as bariatric-specific quality measures, including complication and readmission rate for laparoscopic procedures in sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, and adjustable gastric band. All designated facilities must also be nationally accredited at both the facility and bariatric program-specific levels, as well as demonstrated cost-efficiency compared to its peers. Facilities designated as Blue Distinction Centers+ are on average 20 percent more cost-efficient in an episode of care compared to other facilities. Quality is key: only those health care facilities that first meet Blue Distinction’s nationally-established, objective quality measures will be considered for designation as a Blue Distinction Center+.
(Feb. 12, 2021) It has often been said that it “takes a village” to solve some of the greatest challenges facing any community. On the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland, the responsibility of managing and closing existing gaps in crisis care for individuals experiencing behavioral health crises belongs to the TRIBE. TRIBE is the Tri-County Behavioral Health Engagement. The newly formed collaboration is a regional partnership between TidalHealth Peninsula Regional, Atlantic General Hospital and nine behavioral health community partner agencies. Their immediate goal is to design behavioral health crisis stabilization centers, or behavioral health urgent care centers. “TRIBE originated from a community partners group that met monthly for about a year with the mission of working together to identify gaps in behavioral health services in the tricounty area, with the goal of not duplicating services and working together to address unmet needs,” said Katherine Smith, MSW, LCSW-C, executive director of TidalHealth Behavioral Health Services. “A grant opportunity gave TRIBE the ability to establish a regional partnership and obtain the resources to address the community’s biggest identified gaps – namely accessing behavioral health care in a crisis in real time.” TRIBE’s primary function is a threecounty centralized response to reduce emergency department utilization, hospital admissions and readmissions for individuals experiencing behavioral health issues. In addition, the partnership will increase collaboration with community behavioral health and crisis agencies, including law enforcement, eliminate duplication of services and increase opportunities to help patients experiencing a behavioral health crisis. Currently, individuals who need
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emergent behavioral health care must either wait for an appointment with a community agency provider or go to their hospital’s local emergency room. “When opened later this year, individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis will be able to have their needs met in real time, to feel relief sooner and hopefully avoid needing higher levels of care,” said Tina Simmons, MBA, BSN, RN, LSSBBH, director of Nursing for Atlantic General Health System. “These centers will play an integral part in the larger continuum of care of behavioral health services currently in operation in our communities.” The two crisis centers will essentially serve as behavioral health urgent care centers where individuals can receive crisis respite, observation and intervention in a warm, friendly, home-like community setting. The primary site, which will be near TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in Salisbury, will be open seven days a week with extended hours and feature a safe, homelike environment. A satellite site near Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin, will initially welcome patients six days a week, with plans to expand to seven days a week. A warm and seamless handoff for follow-up care and services with community providers will be arranged that day or the next. Those community provider partners include Lower Shore Clinic, Resource Recovery Center, National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI), Sante Mobile Crisis, Life Crisis Center, Chesapeake Health Services and the health departments of Wicomico, Worcester and Somerset counties. TidalHealth Peninsula Regional and Atlantic General Hospital are the lead agencies for this endeavor, with nine community agencies aiding its success. Community partners will play an integral role in developing procedures and protocols and operating the centers. They’ll aid in the coordinated response to individuals in crisis by ensuring a seamless warm handoff for continued patient care. At both locations, providers will seek to relieve immediate crisis symptoms, provide observation, determine levels of care. Individuals will be triaged, linked with peer support, and offered brief crisis counseling, medication management services to include psychiatric and substance abuse as appropriate, and care navigation. Some services may be completed via telehealth to share resources between sites. Law enforcement and EMS may transport patients to the center, if allowable by state regulations. The Health Services Cost Review Commission (HSCRC) Regional Partnership Catalyst Grant program approved five years of funding at just over $11 million. Centers should open by late summer/early fall 2021. To learn more about TRIBE or the services offered by partner agencies, visit agh.care/TRIBE or call 410-543-7119.
FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
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OBITUARIES DELIA LOREEN LEWIS Salisbury Delia Loreen Lewis, 96, passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 14, 2021. She was born on July 17, 1924 in Paris Center, Ohio to Roy and Gladys Shelton. Her siblings were Martha, Dorothy, William and Phillip. After graduation, Delia Lewis she worked at a beauty salon, was a bookkeeper, court stenographer and contributed to the war effort as a “Rosie the Riveter.” Through her sister she met John Hansen Lewis in a motorcycle touring club. They fell in love and married on her birthday in 1948. The couple attended Logan Chiropractic College in Missouri and welcomed their first born, John Craig William, while enrolled there. After graduation and moving back to Barberton, Ohio, seven more children were to follow: Ava Marie, Kim Gertrude, Terry Ann, Shari Lee, Clifford Allen, Phillip Scott and Mark Hansen. While raising eight children, she became involved in PTA and other local groups. After rejoining the workforce, she later retired from Summit County Human Services as medical intake supervisor. Delia most enjoyed family gatherings, and Christmas was her favorite holiday. She loved the ocean and walking on the beach. As years went by she earned her private pilot license, took up oil painting, spent hours gardening and after retirement was a fearless world traveler with and without Daddy. Later they were at home between Lake Conroe in Texas and Ocean City, Maryland. She was a generous, devoted, loving and supportive, dedicated wife, mother of eight, grandmother of 22 and great-grandmother of 19. We are: John Craig William Lewis and his wife, Mary Starr (Ryan) Lewis have seven children (and 12 grandchildren): Kathryn Kim Lewis, Craig Ryan Lewis, Benjamin Hansen Lewis, John Vallin Lewis, Roselynn Marie Lewis, Daniel Nathan Hamilton Lewis, and Myriah Brynn Lewis. Kathryn (Lewis) Johnsen and her husband, Tom Johnsen, have four children: Kaylee, Ryan, Lauren and Julianna. Craig Ryan Lewis and his wife, Amanda (Sensel) Lewis, have four children: Mckenzie, Whitney, Brynnlee and Tanner. Benjamin Lewis and his wife, TeriAnn (Cameron) Lewis, have four children: Caleb, Annalyse, Isaac and Kyrie. Myriah (Lewis) Gibbons married John Gibbons. Ava Lewis has one child, Zora
(Zoey) Loreen Snyder. Terry (Lewis) Lynette and her husband, Joseph Lynette, have two children: Joseph Patrick, and Amanda Rose. Shari (Lewis) Dunphy and her husband, Michael Dunphy, have five children (and one grandchild): Paul and wife, Becky, Lauren and her son, Mario, Tom, Lindsay, Christopher and his wife, Sarah. Clifford Lewis and his wife Laura have two children: John and Emma. Phillip Lewis and his wife, Bridget, have two children: Brandy (Lewis) married Andy Chrzanowski, and Lacy Ann. Mark Lewis and his wife, Debbie, have three children and six grandchildren: Ron and Sheila Cawthon and their children, Emma and Chase; Heath and Jen Wootton and their children, Paylea and Raylea; Daniel and Brooke Patel and their children, Elise and Liam. Mom had a very long, happy and fulfilling life, always striving for the next accomplishment. She will be missed by so many. The void she leaves will never be filled. At last, after 24 years, she and Daddy will be together again. Rest in peace Mom, we love you and miss you so very much. Arrangements are in the care of Eastern Shore Cremation and Funeral Service, 504 Franklin Avenue,
Berlin, Maryland 21811. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.easternshorecremation.com. MICHAEL G. ANDREWS Selbyville Michael G. Andrews, age 97, passed away peacefully on Monday, Feb. 1, 2021 at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Baltimore, he was the son of the late John S. Andrews and Anna Goffus Andrews. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Mary V. Andrews; Michael Andrews daughter, Patricia A. Andrews; and granddaughter, Stephanie C. Andrews. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Joe, Ed and John, and sister, Agnes. Mike was a proud World War II veteran, serving as a Navy flight engineer and pilot. He was a member of Combat Air Crew 159 stationed at Whidbe, Washington from 19431946. As a self-taught engineer, Michael worked in aviation for Martin-Marietta, Lockheed Martin, and Westinghouse Aerospace. As a senior technical writer at Westinghouse, Mike helped to write the manual that created the camera for the famous Moon Landing of
1969. Michael married Mary Velma Massie on Nov. 11, 1950, a mercurial day of rain, thunder, snow and sunshine – a cosmic declaration of a marriage that was as tempestuous as it was devoted. Michael and Mary had one daughter, Patricia, who still believes the moon rises and sets in her father’s beautiful smile. Patricia remembers how proud she was to walk into school with her dad, always the most handsome man in the room. Blessed to have a dad who was always kind and loving, Patricia has never known a greater man than her father. Michael also had a granddaughter, Stephanie, who is and will always be a professed “Pop pop’s girl.” Stephanie attributes her ability to craft the world’s greatest paper airplanes and her eternal love for travel and adventure to the man that inspired her each and every day. She will continue to live by his motto, “Always do the right thing” and hopes that she will always make him proud. Mike loved flying, boating and fishing, and taking care of ‘his girls,” Mary, Patty, Stephanie and Callie, the family dog. He always had a soft spot for dogs, and all the family pets – Jesse, Jessa, Shorty and Callie – loved their Alpha Continued on Page 70
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FEBRUARY 12, 2021
Ocean City Today
POLICE/COURTS
Public fighting Two York, Pennsylvania residents were charged with affray and disorderly conduct after police had to break up a fight between them last Saturday. According to police, plain clothes police officers in an unmarked car in the downtown area watched as a seemingly intoxicated woman and man shouted at each other as they crossed Baltimore Avenue and 15th Street in Ocean City. The undercover officers reported that the two, later identified as Amanda Delauder, 40, and Derrick Williams, 40, continued to shout expletives at each other until they arrived at the front door of their hotel. Patrol units were called to the hotel as other guests began to respond to the commotion.
Officers and hotel employees told police that Delauder and Williams walked in and out of the hotel, shouting at each other before they A. Delauder walked into the parking lot. It was at that point, police said, that officers heard Williams yell “Help!” before Delauder began punching him repeatedly in the face. Derrick Williams Police said Williams was observed walking away from the situation, but then turned around, gestured towards Delauder, and ultimately pushed her backwards. A fight ensued in public view of several onlookers, police reported.
Naked break-in Trevor Peters, 26, of Ocean City reported that he remembered having drinks at a downtown bar on Feb. 5. After that, he said he had no memory of what happened between Friday night and Saturday morning, according to police Trevor Peters documents. Still, Ocean City police pieced together what they believe happened leading up to the 8:46 a.m. Saturday call from a man inside a closed Boardwalk hotel. According to OCPD Communications, Peters was the caller and had identified himself. On their arrival, police located an unsecured entrance on the fifth floor, entered the hotel and
went to a fourth floor room where the 911 call originated. Police said Peters, who was not clothed, answered the door and was arrested. According to police, and Peters said he was trapped in the hotel because he couldn’t find his pants. Hotel security camera footage confirmed that he had been without clothes for much of the early morning hours. Surveillance footage from the previous evening showed Peters at 2 a.m. walking naked down a hotel hallway, ripping down two light fixtures and sitting while dismantling a climate control unit, according to police. The hotel owner estimated that the damage totaled approximately $500. Peters’ discarded clothing and wallet were found in the hotel hallway. He has been charged with breaking and entering and endangering hotel employees.
OBITUARIES Continued from Page 69 Dad. Michael will always be remembered as a friend to all, with his charming smile and helpful hand, readily extended to help anyone in need. Witty, intelligent, charismatic and kind, Michael was a blessing to family and friends, and his strong and gentle spirit will never be forgotten. A mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Ocean City on Wednesday, Feb. 10. Rev Paul Jennings officiated. Interment followed at the Delaware Veteran’s Cemetery in Millsboro, Delaware. Letters of condolence may be sent via: www.burbagefuneralhome.com.
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SHELLS BY THE SHORE
An assortment of shells pile up on a little beach at the end of one of the trails at Assateague Island National Seashore.
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FEBRUARY 12, 2021